Gareth Bale Retires After Trophy-Laden Career

Gareth Bale has retired from football at the age of 33, ending a trophy-laden career. He announced his decision on social media on Monday.

What happened?

Gareth Bale started his career in England with Southampton before making his name at Tottenham.

He then signed for Real Madrid for a then-world record fee in 2013.

Gareth Bale won three La Liga titles in Spain and five Champions League trophies.

Career highlights

Gareth Bale scored a stunning overhead kick during the Champions League final against Liverpool in 2018.

He was Wales' most-capped men's player with 111 appearances.

Gareth Bale led his nation to its first World Cup in 64 years at Qatar 2022.

International career

Gareth Bale captained his side and scored his country's first World Cup goal since 1958 against the US.

He finished his 16-year career at LAFC, scoring a dramatic, late goal to help the team win the Major League Soccer Cup for the first time in November 2022.

Legacy

LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington praised Gareth Bale, saying it was an honor to have him finish his career with a title for LAFC.

Gareth Bale expressed his gratitude to all those who helped him throughout his career.

He feels indebted to many people for helping to change his life and shape his career in a way he couldn't have dreamed of when he first started out at 9 years old.