In a moment that reverberated across the football world, Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan, whose name became synonymous with African triumph, officially announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 37.

The prolific striker, Ghana’s all-time leading goal scorer with an incredible 51 goals, bid farewell to a career spanning over two decades during an event in the vibrant city of Accra.

“It is with mixed emotions that I stand before you today, facing a decision that every footballer dreads. The time has come for me to heed the call, to embrace a new chapter,” expressed Gyan, his voice tinged with both nostalgia and anticipation.

With a resounding impact on the sport, Gyan’s career witnessed remarkable highs, etching his name into the annals of Ghanaian and African football history.

Gyan’s international career was adorned with numerous accolades and accomplishments. He represented Ghana with distinction at the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cups, leaving an indomitable imprint on the global stage.

Additionally, he played a crucial role in seven TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, leading his team to the final on two occasions.

The 2010 World Cup in South Africa witnessed Gyan’s brilliance, where he showcased his relentless goal-scoring prowess. However, it was during the quarter-final clash against Uruguay that fate dealt a cruel blow.

In the dying moments of extra time, he stepped up to take a penalty after Luis Suarez’s infamous handball. Gyan’s strike hit the crossbar, extinguishing Ghana’s dreams of a historic triumph.

As the nation held its breath in the 2010 World Cup, Gyan’s missed penalty in the quarter-finals against Uruguay prevented Ghana from becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals, leaving an indelible mark on his career.

Yet, he demonstrated resilience and converted his penalty in the ensuing shootout, despite Ghana ultimately succumbing to defeat.

Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Gyan revealed, “It is true that one incident can shape a career, define a legacy. But football is more than a single event. It is a collection of countless memories, achievements, and the love of the game.”

Renowned as “Baby Jet,” Gyan ventured beyond the borders of his homeland where he played for Liberty Professionals before plying his trade for esteemed European clubs.

His journey encompassed notable stints at Sunderland in the Premier League, Udinese in Serie A, and Rennes in Ligue 1 as well as clubs in Asia where he played in the UAE, China and India before returning home to play for Legon Cities.

As he takes his final bow from the pitch, Gyan embarks on a new phase of his life, embracing various roles within the football realm.

The illustrious forward intends to share his expertise as a television pundit, promote the sport he holds dear, and serve as a charismatic ambassador for the game he graced with distinction.