David Beckham is leaving pro soccer behind after 20 years. The 38-year-old announced his retirement Thursday in a statement.
“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 one hundred 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 realized those dreams,” he said. "To this day, one of my proudest achievements is captaining my country. I knew every time I wore the Three Lions shirt, I was not only following in a long line of great players, I was also representing every fan that cared passionately about their country. I'm honored to represent England both on and off the pitch.”
Beckham is currently playing with Paris Saint-Germain. He thanked the club in his statement. “I’m thankful to P.S.G. for giving me the opportunity to continue, but I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level,” said Beckham.
He also thanked his family, which includes wife Victoria Beckham and their four children. “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,” continued Beckham.
"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 added.
Beckham first played for Manchester United from 1993 to 2003. He then played for Real Madrid for four years and Los Angeles Galaxy for five. He signed with Paris Saint-Germain earlier this year.
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