Gianluigi Buffon, the Italian World Cup winner and one of the most decorated footballers of this generation, announced his retirement, bringing an end to one of the most outstanding and trophy-laden careers in football history.
The 45-year-old goalkeeper redefined what it meant to be a goalkeeper, winning the 2006 FIFA World Cup, 10 Serie A titles, 7 Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana medals, a UEFA Super Cup and a Ligue 1 title to name a few.
“That’s all folks! You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together,” Buffon announced his retirement via his Twitter account.
That's all folks!
You gave me everything.
I gave you everything.
We did it together. pic.twitter.com/bGvIDsoFsG— Gianluigi Buffon (@gianluigibuffon) August 2, 2023
The 45-year-old started his professional career with Parma and ended his 28-year career with an incredible 29 trophies. Buffon made his debut for I Crociati in 1995 and helped them win the UEFA Cup in 1998-99, the same year they won the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana. He continued with I Gialloblu until 2001 before moving on to Juventus, where he had a phenomenally successful time.
The famous goalkeeper will be remembered for his amazing saves that helped Italy reach the peak of international football in 2006, as well as his love and respect for the game. The grace and calmness with which he carried himself during his career serve as a role model for aspiring players all across the world.