Wales star Gareth Bale retires from professional football
London, Jan 9 (EFE).- Former Real Madrid and Wales star Gareth Bale on Monday announced his immediate retirement from professional football.
The 33-year-old, who last year signed for Los Angeles FC, said in a social media statement that his decision had come after “careful” and “thoughtful” consideration.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have realized my dream to play the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life,” said the Welshman, who won five Champions League titles and three LaLiga titles with Real Madrid.
With his beloved Wales, Bale reached the semifinals of Euro 2016 and last year captained the team at its first World Cup since 1958.
Bale began his senior career with Southampton in 2006 before signing for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur a year later at the age of 18.
Known for his lightning speed, Bale excelled at Spurs and in 2013 joined Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid for a then record fee of 100.8 million euros.
The latter three of his eight seasons with Los Blancos were marred by injury and a deteriorating relationship with the fans.
In 2020, he rejoined Spurs for a season on loan before his sale to LAFC, where he finished his career.EFE
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