Asamoah Gyan, a legendary striker for the Black Stars of Ghana, has formally announced his retirement from the game of football.
Gyan made his statement during a speech he gave on Tuesday night at the Accra International Conference Center during the 30th Afreximbank Annual Meetings.
The 37-year-old has opted to conclude his brilliant career, which began more than 20 years ago, and his last competitive encounter was almost three years ago.
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 represented Ghana in three FIFA World Cup tournaments (2006, 2010, 2014) and played a pivotal role in their historic run to the quarter-finals in the 2010 edition held in South Africa.