Former England international Jermain Defoe announces retirement aged 39
- Planet Sport writer
- 24 March 2022
Jermain Defoe's 22-year long career has come to an end, with the Sunderland striker announcing his retirement on Thursday morning.
Defoe's last appearance came in Sunderland's 0-0 draw with Lincoln last weekend, and despite being contracted to the Black Cats until the remainder of the season, the 39-year-old has called it time on his dazzling career.
He hangs his boots up having scored 20 goals in 57 games for his nation, as well as ranking ninth in the all-time Premier League scoring list, with 162 goals in 492 appearances.
Born in Beckton, London, Defoe began his career at West Ham, spending five years with the Hammers and scoring 29 goals in 93 appearances.
Defoe also enjoyed two successful spells at Tottenham between 2004 and 2014, either side of a season-long stint at Portsmouth in 2008/09.
In north London, Defoe played 276 matches, scoring an impressive 91 goals.
Defoe also returned to Sunderland for a second time, with his first stint coming in 2015-17, before he returned to Wearside in 2022 following three seasons at Rangers and two at Bournemouth.
And it was at the Stadium of Light where the striker decided to hang up his boots, after making a final seven appearances for the side in the 2021/22 season.
Defoe announced his decision on social media, where his post read: "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.
— Jermain Defoe OBE (@IAmJermainDefoe) March 24, 2022
"I made my professional debut at 17 years old 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."
