Robbie Rogers announces retirement

This morning Robbie Rogers announced his retirement, ending a 11-year career that includes stops in England and the Netherlands as well as MLS with the LA Galaxy and Columbus Crew. The 30-year-old finally succumbed to nagging foot complications that have kept the defender out since last December.

“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my retirement from the game of soccer,” Rogers said in a statement. “It is through this game that I have experienced some of my greatest achievements both professionally and personally and I am forever indebted to the numerous individuals – coaches, teammates, staff and fans – that have helped me during this journey. I want to personally thank Mr. Anschutz, Dan Beckerman and the entire AEG family for the opportunities and continual support they have given me during my time with the LA Galaxy. I would like to thank Bruce Arena for encouraging me to return to professional soccer after I came out as a gay man. I’d also like to thank all of my LA Galaxy teammates for accepting me from the first day I stepped back into the locker room at StubHub Center. Finally, I’d like to thank the fans for their continued support throughout my career. I’ll never forget the feeling of returning to the field in my first game back. That feeling of acceptance and support pushed me as an athlete and as a person. Having the opportunity to win an MLS Cup in my hometown, with my hometown club as an openly gay man will be something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I will remain deeply connected to this sport and its surrounding community. I leave the game full of pride of what I have accomplished as a person and a player. I am looking forward to the next chapter of my life.”

It’s unfortunate the talented but oft-injured Rogers is unable to further his career, but at least Robbie appears to have a bright future ahead of him.

Here at LAG Confidential we wish Robbie the best of luck.