Gianluigi Buffon has announced that he is retiring from professional football after long, illustrious 28-year career.
Buffon, 45, had one year left in his contract at Parma, the team he began his football journey with nearly 3 decades ago, and has decided to call it quits.
Gianluigi Buffon will officially announce his retirement from professional football shortly. 👋🏻🇮🇹
Decision made yesterday and set to be confirmed. pic.twitter.com/F4jiZ8jNGP
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 2, 2023
“That’s all folks! You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together,” Buffon wrote on Instagram next to a video of his career highlights.
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
During his career Buffon played for Parma, Juventus, PSG, a return to the Old Lady and a second return to Parma. He established himself as one of the best goalkeepers of his generation, winning multiple trophies, such as 10 Serie A titles with Juventus.
The pinnacle of Buffon’s career came in 2006, when he won the World Cup with Italy, conceding only 2 goals in the process, none of which were from open play.
“I experienced Buffon for 25 years, first with Juve and then on the national team — his greatness as a player and as a man,” former coach Marcello Lippi said.
“A legend hangs up his gloves today,” Juventus tweeted, “Your saves, your smiles, and your character will be forever remembered. Thank you, and congrats on an incredible career.”