AN emotional Gareth Bale said goodbye to Wales fans in Cardiff after announcing his retirement from football.
The Welsh legend hung up his boots at the beginning of the year at the age of 33 after a glittering and memorable career.
ReutersGareth Bale said goodbye to fans in Wales’ first home game since his retirement[/caption]
GettyThe winger made his Wales debut in 2006[/caption]
ReutersThe Welshman made 111 appearances and scored 41 goals for his country[/caption]
The decision meant that Wales lost their long-serving talisman, who was their only goal scorer at last year’s World Cup.
Before the Euro qualifier against Latvia, Bale took to the pitch at the Cardiff City Stadium to address fans for one final time.
His voice booming on a microphone, he said: “I just want to say, obviously, what an honour it has been to represent this country and play in front of the best fans in the world.
“You’ve supported me, my family and the teams through the lowest of the lows and the highest of the highs.
“I can’t thank you enough and, honestly, it’s been the biggest pleasure playing in front of you throughout my whole career.
“I’m going to miss playing in front of you but make sure you keep supporting the boys.
“You, the fans, are Welsh football, you make it so special, you make it what it is today.
“Obviously, I’ll be cheering on like you lot. Hopefully I’ll see you soon in the future. Thank you.”
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK
Bale is one of the most decorated British footballers ever.
He has won five Champions League trophies, all with Real Madrid, while he also lifted three La Liga crowns, three FIFA Club World Cups, three Super Cups, the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa de Rey during his time in Spain.
The winger also led Wales on an incredible run all the way to the Euros 2016 semi-final.
Since his retirement, the star has moved into playing golf with Bale making no secret of his love for the sport during his football career.
He made his PGA debut in February and left US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick and Jon Rahm gushing about his talent.