Gareth Bale has today called time on his football career, retiring from participating for club and country with immediate effect.
The 33-year-old most recently represented MLS side LAFC and saw his final involvement within the sport arrive during the winter World Cup in Qatar as Wales crashed out in the group stages. Many expected this to be Bale's final tournament with the Dragons, though his decision to stop playing altogether has come as a surprise to some.
Explaining why he has taken his path, the former Tottenham Hotspur star released the following statement: "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.
