Ghanaian-American forward Gyasi Zardes has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career that featured two MLS Cup titles and more than 100 goals in Major League Soccer.
The 35-year-old former United States international confirmed his decision on Sunday, closing the chapter on a professional career that spanned more than a decade at both club and international level.
Zardes announced his retirement in a post on X, expressing gratitude to the many people who supported him throughout his journey.
“It’s officially time to announce my retirement from professional soccer. Thank you to my family, teammates, coaches, staff, organizations, agents, friends, fans, and everyone who has been part of this journey. Forever grateful for it all.”
During his MLS career, Zardes scored 106 goals in 328 appearances, establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent American forwards.
He enjoyed successful spells with the LA Galaxy and Columbus Crew, winning the MLS Cup with both clubs.
Zardes lifted his first MLS Cup with the Galaxy in 2014 before helping Columbus Crew claim the championship in 2020.
His individual achievements also included an MLS All-Star selection in 2015 and the league’s Comeback Player of the Year award in 2018.
The striker also represented the Colorado Rapids and Austin FC during his MLS career, with his professional journey spanning from 2013 to 2024.
At international level, Zardes made 68 appearances for the United States, scoring 14 goals. He was also part of the U.S. teams that won the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2017 and 2021.
Born in the United States to a Ghanaian family, Zardes leaves professional football with an accomplished résumé that includes major domestic honours, international success and more than a century of MLS goals.
His retirement marks the end of a notable career that connected his Ghanaian heritage with a successful journey at the highest levels of American football.
