Mesut Ozil announces retirement, says, 'it’s time to leave the big stage of football'

Footballer Mesut Ozil took to social media to announce his official retirement from professional football at the age of 34 on Wednesday. In his post captioned, "Thank You", he wrote a lengthy note thanking each and every one who contributed to his footballing journey.

"After thoughtful consideration, I’m announcing my immediate retirement from professional football. I have had the privilege to be a professional football player for almost 17 years now and I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity. But in recent weeks and months, having also suffered the same injuries, it’s become more and more clear that it’s time to leave the big stage of football," Ozil said in his statement.

"It has been an amazing journey filled with unforgettable moments and emotions. I want to thank my clubs - Schalke, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Fenerbahce, Basaksehir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates who have become friends.

"Special thanks must go to my family members and my closest friends. They have been a part of my journey from day one and have given me so much love and support, through the good times and the bad. Thank you to all my fans who have shown me so much love no matter the circumstances and no matter which club I was representing. Now I’m looking forward to everything that is in front of me with my beautiful wife, Amine, and my two beautiful daughters, Eda and El - but you can be sure that you will hear from me."

With 92 appearances for Germany, the star player took home the World Cup in 2014 for his nation.

He played for Real Madrid and Arsenal before transferring to Fenerbahce. At the Turkish team Istanbul Başakşehir, he ended his playing days.