33-year-old Welshman retires from football Gareth Baleas he himself stated.

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— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) January 9, 2023

Retirement notice:

“After careful and careful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football. I am incredibly lucky that I realized my dream and began to play my favorite sport. It really gave me some of the best moments of my life. Highest peaks in 17 years that will be impossible to repeat, no matter what the next chapter of my life is.

From my first contact in Southampton to my last in Los Angeles, and everything in between, has shaped a collective career that I am immensely proud of and grateful for. 111 baseball caps for my country and the captain’s armband was a dream. It seems impossible to express gratitude to everyone who took part in this journey. I feel indebted to the many people who have helped me change my life and build my career in ways I never imagined when I first started at the age of nine.

In all the previous clubs that I played for: Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and Los Angeles. All my previous coaches, staff, teammates, dedicated fans, managers, wonderful friends and family, the impact you have made is immeasurable. To my parents and sister, without your dedication in those early days, without a solid foundation, I would not be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support. To my wife and children: Your love and support has helped me get through this.

You were with me in grief and in grief, keeping me on the ground all the way. You inspire me to be better and make you proud. So I’m looking forward to the next phase of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure.”

A career full of distinction

Bale played in the American League for Los Angeles. He began his professional career at Southampton playing as a left back. He made his debut for Wales in May 2006.

In 2007, he moved to Tottenham, where he also began to play on the flanks of the attack. Since the 2009-10 season, he has become an integral part of the squad and has attracted the attention of other big clubs with his skills.

In 2013, he was transferred to Real Madrid for a fee of 100 million. Bale was instrumental in his first season at Real Madrid, helping his team win the Copa del Rey and the Champions League in 2013–14, scoring goals in both finals.

The following season, his team won the UEFA Super Cup and the Welshman scored a goal in the third major final, again helping his side win the Club World Cup.

Two years later, he was once again a key player for Real Madrid in the Champions League, winning the trophy in 2015/16 and finishing in the UEFA top 11. He was even a finalist for the European Player of the Year Award.