Gareth Bale, the five-time Champions League winner, has retired from football at the age of 33. The Welshman made the announcement today, bringing an end to a glittering career that saw him play for Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid, and Los Angeles FC. He made the announcement this afternoon on his Twitter account, as seen in the post below:
Bale joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 and quickly established himself as one of the world's best players. His wing speed and skill made him a constant threat to opponents, and he was instrumental in Real Madrid's four Champions League victories between 2014 and 2018.
Despite his success at the club, Bale's time at Real Madrid was not without controversy. He often found himself at odds with the club's management and fans, and spent much of his later years at the club on the bench. He eventually joined LAFC on a 12-month contract, with options through to 2024, but that option seems today to have been put to bed. Bale did manage to score a last minute equaliser in the MLS Cup Final, taking the tie to penalties with LAFC running out eventual champions in what will prove to be his last action in club football.
Despite his departure from Real Madrid, he leaves as one of the club's all-time greats, with over 100 goals and 60 assists in La Liga alone.
Bale also had a successful international career, appearing in over 80 games for Wales and scoring 33 goals. He helped lead the team to the European Championship semi-finals in 2016 and was instrumental in the country's qualification for the 2022 World Cup.
Many football fans will be surprised by Bale's retirement, but it is a testament to his longevity and success at the highest level. He retires as one of the game's greatest players of his generation, and his contributions to both club and international football will be remembered. Will we be seeing Gareth try and have a crack at pro golf now? Only time will tell!
