Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By DAN KARELL
One of the most decorated players in world soccer has decided to call it quits.
According to multiple reports, David Beckham has decided to announce his retirement, just days after winning his tenth league title in four different countries. The 38-year-old Englishman has made 13 appearances in all competitions for Paris Saint-Germain since signing with the club at the end of January.
“I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level,” Beckham said in a statement released on Thursday. “I want to thank all my teammates, the great managers that I had the pleasure of learning from. I also want to thank the fans who have all supported me and given me the strength to succeed.”
Prior to his stay in France, Beckham spent six seasons with the Los Angeles Galaxy in Major League Soccer, winning back-to-back MLS Cups in 2011 and 2012, as well as winning the Supporters Shield in 2010 and 2011. The former England international scored 18 goals in 115 MLS appearances during his time with the Galaxy.
Beckham’s stay in MLS also coincided with the creation of the Designated Player Rule, dubbed the “Beckham Rule”, which allows teams in the league to sign a player to a contract above the maximum salary restrictions. This season, 18 of the 19 MLS teams have designated players on their rosters.
What do you think of this news? Do you feel Beckham succeeded in his efforts to help MLS grow? What was your favorite memory of Beckham’s playing career?
Share your thoughts below.