Wales fans ‘crying’ as Gareth Bale releases separate statement on his retirement
Wales fans have been left "crying" after Gareth Bale released a separate statement on his retirement.
Having confirmed his decision to retire from all football in an emotional social media post, Bale also penned a message to Welsh fans after deciding to call time on his playing days. In the message, he wrote: "To my Welsh family, my decision to retire from international football has been, by far, the hardest of my career.
"How do I describe what being a part of this country and team means to me? How do I articulate the impact it has had on my life? How do I put into words the way I felt, every single time I put on that Welsh shirt?
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"My answer is that I couldn't possibly do any of those things justice, simply with words. But I know that every person involved in Welsh football, feels the magic, and is impacted in such a powerful and unique way, so I know you feel what I feel, without using any words at all.
"My journey on the international stage is one that has changed not only my life but who I am. The fortune of being Welsh and being selected to play for and captain Wales has given me something incomparable to anything else I've experienced.
"I am honoured and humbled to have been able to play a part in the history of this incredible country, to have felt the support and passion of the red wall, and together have been to unexpected and amazing places.
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"I shared a dressing room with boys that became brothers, and backroom staff that became family, I played for the most incredible managers, and felt the undying support and love from the most dedicated fans in the world. Thank you to every one of you for being on this journey with me.
"So for now I am stepping back, but not away from the team that lives in me and runs through my veins. After all, the dragon on my shirt is all I need. Together stronger. Diolch."
Bale's message to Wales fans has left some supporters in tears, with one tweeting: “Bale retiring got me crying in the middle of a work meeting.”
Another added: “I will forever remember what you have done for our nation in football. Many thanks Gareth.” A third wrote: “The greatest we will ever see. Thanks for making our dreams a reality.”
One more commented: “What a player and what a servant for Welsh football. Thanks for the memories Gareth.” Another also tweeted: “The finest footballer ever to wear the Red Dragon on his chest.”
The 33-year-old scored 40 goals in 111 caps for Wales, appearing at three major tournaments during his career, beginning with the Euros in 2016.
Wales went on to reach the semi-finals in their maiden Euros appearance and first major tournament for 58 years. Bale would also captain the national team at Euro 2020 and last year's Qatar World Cup.
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