Sounders’ Forward Clint Dempsey Retires from Professional Soccer

Clint Dempsey. Photo by Canadian Press/REX/Shutterstock

Seattle Sounders and USMNT forward Clint Dempsey is walking away from professional soccer after 15 years. Dempsey, who also played for Tottenham and Fulham in English Premier League, announced his decision on Wednesday and confirmed it is effective immediately. This means he won’t play out the rest of 2018 MLS season with the Sounders.

After a lot of thought, my family and I have decided that this is the right time for me to step away from the game,” – the 35-year-old said in a statement. “I’d like to thank all of the teammates, coaches and support staff that I’ve worked with throughout my career. It has always been my dream to make it as a pro. I’m grateful to have been on this ride.

Dempsey also thanked the fans of the clubs he played for.

I would like to thank all of the fans who have supported me throughout my career with the New England Revolution, Fulham, Tottenham, Seattle Sounders and the U.S. Men’s National Team. Y’all have always made me feel at home, and it is something that I will always remember.

Clint Dempsey played 14 games for the Sounders this season, scoring once and providing one assist as well. His decision to retire mid-season is probably encouraged by the fact that his playing time would be limited since the team has acquired Peruvian international Raul Ruidiaz.

MLS commissioner Don Garber also issued a statement following Dempsey’s retirement. “Clint Dempsey has been one of the most impactful players in the history of the sport in our countryFrom his early success with the New England Revolution to his achievements both as a top player in the English Premier League and for the U.S. Men’s National Team, Clint showed us that there are no limits for an American player.

Starting his career with the New England Revolution in 2004, Clint Dempsey attracted the attention of European clubs with his excellent performances. Premier League side Fulham was the quickest and brought him in for a then-record fee paid for an MLS player. Dempsey stayed five years in Fulham, playing 184 games and scoring 50 goals. After a short stint with Tottenham, he decided to return to MLS, and sign with Seattle Sounders in 2013.

Clint Dempsey also left a significant mark in the United States men’s national soccer team. He scored 57 goals in 141 appearances and is tied with Landon Donovan as the USMNT’s best goal scorer in history.

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