Landon Donovan, the most decorated player in United States soccer history, announced Thursday his retirement from professional soccer at the end of the season.
Donovan made the announcement in a Facebook post.
“I don’t write these words lightly and this day carries mixed emotions for me,” Donovan wrote, in part. “I am sad to leave a profession that has brought me so much joy.”
ESPN’s Taylor Twellman first reported the news on Twitter Thursday.
The Los Angeles Galaxy called a news conference Thursday at 3 p.m. Mountain Time.
Donovan, who was left off the U.S. World Cup team in May, is the all-time leading scorer in U.S. and Major League Soccer history.
“I also am excited to begin a new chapter and pursue other opportunities that will challenge me and allow me to grow as a person,” Donovan wrote in his Facebook post.
Donovan went on to say he plans to stay connected to the sport beyond his retirement.
The announcement comes a day after Donovan scored the winning goal to lift the MLS All-Stars over Bayern Munich, 2-1, in his record 14th All-Star game appearance.
Barring a potential playoff matchup, Donovan is expected to make his final appearance in Colorado when the Galaxy take on the Rapids Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
