Former Black Stars striker, Asamoah Gyan, has officially announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 37.
The former Stade Rennes and Sunderland striker made the announcement at The 30th Afreximbank Annual Meetings held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday evening.
Gyan, who last played a competitive match almost three years ago, has now decided to bring an end to his illustrious career that began two decades ago. The 35-year-old striker leaves behind a remarkable legacy and a string of achievements.
During his emotional retirement speech, Gyan addressed the audience, stating, “I want to take this great opportunity, a stage that is difficult in every footballer’s career, a moment all footballers do not wish, but when nature dawns, that thin voice will keep echoing into the ears… it is time… that voice has been clear in my ears, and I have succumbed to it, it is time. It is time to hand the jersey and boots in glory as I officially retire from active football.”
Gyan’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable journey that saw him become Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, netting an impressive 51 goals in 109 appearances for the national team.
He remains Africa’s all-time leading goalscorer in the history of the Fifa World Cup.
The former Udinese Calcio striker represented Ghana in three FIFA World Cup tournaments and played a pivotal role in their historic run to the quarter-finals in the 2010 edition held in South Africa.
He played for several clubs around the world, including Udinese in Italy, Rennes in France, Sunderland in the English Premier League, and Al-Ain in the United Arab Emirates, where he enjoyed tremendous success and became the club’s all-time leading scorer.
Gyan’s retirement will undoubtedly leave a void in Ghanaian football, as he was not only a prolific striker but also an inspirational leader on and off the field.
His dedication and commitment to the game have made him a beloved figure among fans and earned him respect within the footballing community.
Gyan, who last played for the Black Stars in 2019 during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt will remain one of the most iconic strikers to have ever played for the Black Stars and will be remembered for his goalscoring prowess.