March 24, (THEWILL) – Jermain Defoe, a former striker for Rangers, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United, has confirmed his retirement from professional football.
The 39-year-old re-joined Sunderland towards the end of the January transfer window, having left Rangers in December after winning the Scottish Premiership in record-breaking form the previous season.
However, after making just seven appearances in his second term with the Black Cats, Defoe has decided to call it a day on his long professional career, announcing his decision in an emotional post on Twitter.
“After 22 years in the game, I have decided to retire from professional football. It’s been a really tough decision, and one I have discussed with my family and those closest to me”, Defoe posted.
“I made my professional debut at 17 in 1999, and I feel now is the right time to bow out. I have had an incredible journey, and have met some amazing people in the game.
“Football will always remain in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on the blessed career that I’ve had. I now look forward to spending some quality time with my friends and family before moving forward on this next chapter in my career.
“Thank you to all the fans from each club I’ve played for. The love I have received and endured throughout my career will never be forgotten, and I will always have a special bond with you all.
“Thank you also to my amazing team mates, coaches, and staff for playing such an integral part in my career.
“Lastly, I want to say thank you to my mum. You gave me a ball at two years old, and you made me believe my dream could happen. All that I am is because of you, and I owe everything to you and God.”
Defoe leaves as the English Premier League’s ninth-highest goalscorer, with 162 league goals scored over spells at West Ham, Tottenham, Portsmouth, Sunderland, and Bournemouth. He also played in the 2010 World Cup and was capped 57 times by England, scoring 20 goals for the Three Lions.
Defoe was a member of Tottenham’s League Cup-winning team in 2008 and helped Rangers win the Scottish Premiership in 2021.
In 2018, he was also awarded an OBE for his continuous charitable activities.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
