Former Real Madrid and Wales captain Gareth Bale announces his retirement from playing.

The 33-year-old striker addressed the fans on Instagram.

“After careful consideration, I have made the decision to retire from club and international football.. I am incredibly lucky to fulfill my dream and do what I love.. I lived through the best moments of my life - all the achievements of 17 seasons that cannot be repeated, no matter what the next chapter of life has in store for me,"

Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013. As part of Madrid, he won the Champions League five times, the Spanish Championship three times, as well as a number of other trophies.. For the Spanish top club, the footballer played 258 matches, scored 106 goals and gave 67 assists..

Bale scored 41 goals in 111 matches for Wales and became the country's all-time leading scorer..

Since last summer, the Welshman played for the American club Los Angeles..

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Earlier it was reported that the legendary player of Barcelona announced his retirement.