Becks to hang up boots
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder David Beckham.
Britain’s most popular footballer and former England captain David Beckham on Thursday announced his decision to retire from professional football at the end of the current season.
The 38-year-old, who is currently playing for French club, Paris Saint-Germain, said, “I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level.” Beckham said he wanted to finish his career on a high after winning the French title with the club.
The French club have two more games before the end of the season, on Saturday and on May 26. He donates his salary from the club to charity.
Beckham has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Los Angeles Galaxy football clubs.
“If you had told me as a young boy I would have played for and won trophies with my boyhood club Manchester United, proudly captained and played for my country over 100 times and lined up for some of the biggest clubs in the world, I would have told you it was a fantasy. I’m fortunate to have realised those dreams,” he said in a statement.
Beckham, who is currently an ambassador for Chinese football, did not reveal his plans for the future. “Nothing will ever completely replace playing the game I love, however I feel like I’m starting a new adventure and I’m genuinely excited about what lies ahead. I’m fortunate to have been given many opportunities throughout my career and now I feel it’s my time to give back,” he said.
Beckham made Man Utd debut in 1992 and his England debut in 1996 and went on to become national team’s most capped outfield player with 115 appearances.
The Leytonstone-born footballer paid tribute to his parents, wife Victoria and children. “I wouldn’t have achieved what I have done today without my family. I’m grateful for my parents’ sacrifice, which made me realise my dreams. I owe everything to Victoria and the kids, who have given me the inspiration and support to play at the highest level for such a long period.”
Tributes have started pouring in for England’s most popular player as Prime Minister David Cameron joined in. “Best wishes as David #BeckhamRetires His magical free kicks for @MUFC and England will live long in the memory of all football fans,” Cameron tweeted.
Former England striker and commentator Gary Lineker tweeted: “David Beckham has retired. A wonderful player, global superstar and a magnificent ambassador for England and football.”
The announcement comes just a week after the shock retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, his former manager at Manchester United.
“In the week following Sir Alex Ferguson retiring, which came as a bit of a shock, now we have the iconic David Beckham coming out of the game. When you look at his playing and work for England, no-one would ever accuse him of being unpatriotic and not giving everything for his country. He is a real loss to the game and I am sure the FA will want to embrace him and to get him closely associated with the organisation,” FA chairman David Bernstein said.
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