One of the most recognizable sports figures in the world announced that he will retire from professional football once the current season comes to an end.
David Beckham began his stellar career in 1993 with English powerhouse Manchester United.
The 38-year-old would spend the next 10 seasons with the club, helping Man U win 7 Premier League titles and the 1999 Champions League crown. The international superstar also spent time with Real Madrid, AC Milan and the Los Angeles Galaxy of the Major League Soccer league, winning league titles with each club as well.
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A current member of the Paris St Germain football club, Beckham feels confident that the time to retire is now. The star also notes he is fully appreciative of the opportunities and success he's had throughout his career.
"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," Beckham said to ESPN. "I'm fortunate to have realized those dreams."
Beckham made 115 appearances for the English national team and won another league title with Paris St Germain this season. While he is extremely thankful for the chance to play for PSG, the soccer star wants to go out on top while he is still playing at a productive level.
"I am thankful to PSG for giving me the opportunity to continue," Beckham said in a statement to CNN. "I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level."
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Beckham scored well-over 100 goals in his senior and national career and while he was a dominant player in multiple leagues for a number of years, his shining moments came while he served as captain of his national team.
"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," Beckham said to ABC News. "I'm honored to represent England both on and off the pitch. I want to thank all my teammates, the great managers and I also want to thank the fans who have all supported me and given me the strength to succeed."
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While Beckham will surely miss the game that helped him grow into one of the sports most beloved figures and one of the most renowned athletes in the world, the time is undoubtedly now for him to retire since he is still capable of playing at a high level and won't have to go through a performance decline with the world watching.
A record-holder for the most appearances by a non-goalie on a national team, David Beckham will surely go down as one of the most influential and talented players the great international game of soccer has ever known.
WATCH David Beckham Notch A Huge Goal For The LA Galaxy In 2012:
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