Former Manchester United, Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy and AC Milan star – and current PSG player – David Beckham, 38, has today announced his decision to retire from professional football at the end of this 2012/13 season.
Beckham had been playing for Paris St-Germain after having signed a five month deal for the French club in January.
David Beckham, famous for his free kick technique, and high-profile marriage to Victoria Adams of 1990s girl group The Spice Girls, made 115 appearances for England and 394 for Manchester United during an illustrious career. With United, Beckham won six Premier League crowns and the coveted UEFA Champions League.
Since signing for the French club PSG, Beckham has donated his entire salary to charity, and, as one of the most famous footballers on the planet, is sure to be presented with many opportunities following his decision to retire from competitive football.
It remains to be seen which direction Beckham will take his career once playing professional football is no longer his main occupation, though in his statement the player said:
“Nothing will ever completely replace playing the game I love.”
Beckham will be remembered by fans in England, Spain, the USA, Italy and, France, where he played – and also the rest of the world – as one of football’s model professionals.