David Beckham Announces Retirement From Soccer

David Beckham, the iconic international soccer star, announced his retirement from the game on Thursday, after winning a league championship in a fourth country with Paris Saint-Germain.

"I'm thankful to PSG for giving me the opportunity to continue but I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level,'' the former England captain said in a statement.

Beckham’s involvement in the fashion world and marriage to former Spice Girl Victoria Beckha, in addition to his prowess on the soccer pitch, has made him a global superstar. Throughout his storied soccer career, he’s won championships with Manchester United, Real Madrid, the Los Angeles Galaxy and most recently, Paris Saint Germain.

Beckham also made 115 appearances with the England national team – an all time record for outfield players. "To this day, one of my proudest achievements is captaining my country,'' Beckham said. "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.

"I'm honored to represent England both on and off the pitch.''

Recently, Beckham played a major role in England’s attempts to host the 2018 World Cup. Although the attempt was ultimately successful, the English Football Association is keen to use Beckham’s star power in the future. Now that he is officially retiring, he is sure to have a more active role in the association. He has also recently become an ambassador for Chinese soccer.

"Nothing will ever completely replace playing the game I love, however I feel like I'm starting a new adventure and I'm genuinely excited about what lies ahead,'' Beckham said. "I'm fortunate to have been given many opportunities throughout my career and now I feel it's my time to give back.''

Beckham, his wife Victoria, and their four children are currently residing in London. His last professional game will be on Saturday, May 26 at Lorient.

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