Former Tottenham talisman Gareth Bale has announced his retirement from international and club football. The 33-year-old had considered whether to hang up his boots in the summer after Real Madrid decided against renewing his contract in the Spanish capital before instead joining MLS side LAFC on a 12-month contract.
In a statement posted to Twitter confirming his decision, Bale wrote: "After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.
"I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.
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"From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.
"To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn't have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.
"To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, team mates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.
"My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, I wouldn't be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support.
"My wife and my children, your love and support has carried me through. Right beside me for all the highs and lows, keeping me grounded along the way. You inspire me to be better, and to make you proud.
"So, I move on with anticipation to the next stage of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure..."
Over two separate spells at Tottenham, Bale featured 237 times for the Lilywhites and directly contributed towards 132 goals. His impressive displays for the north London outfit helped the club lift the League Cup in 2008 before eventually securing a move to Real Madrid.
The Wales international, who arrived in La Liga nearly ten years ago for a British record fee worth £85million, featured 258 times for Los Blancos. He was a pivotal piece in the puzzle which saw Real Madrid become the first side to win the Champions League three years in a row.
Bale won three La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and four FIFA Club World Cups during his spell at the Bernabeu. He spent many of his final years at the Santiago Bernabeu either plagued with injury, on the bench or on loan at Spurs.
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