International star David Beckham to retire at end of PSG season

David Beckham is retiring at the end of this season, ending a career in which he won titles in four different countries and became an international icon. The 38-year-old former England captain is finishing up his career in France with Paris Saint-Germain, where he won a title again this year.

“It’s a good way to go out,” Beckham said in Paris. “It’s every athlete’s dream, every footballer’s dream to go out on the top – on top form or winning a trophy…leaving as a champion.”

Beckham rose to fame when he began his career with Manchester United, and he went on to play with Real Madrid and the Los Angeles Galaxy. Beckham played for the Galaxy from 2007-2012, helping the club win the MLS Cup championship in both 2011 and 2012…

“Today is a day to celebrate David Beckham and the completion of his fabulous career,” said LA Galaxy General Mnager and Head Coach Bruce Arena. “In addition to being such a great player, David is also a great personality, a great teammate, a great friend and family man. He is a person that you cannot replace, on the field or off and our club is in a better position for having him play for us in the six years that he did.”

[ + Click here to read the NY Times article on Beckham’s retirement ]