Landon Donovan, the greatest American soccer player, will retire at the end of the MLS season. Donovan, who played in three World Cups for the United States and was a six-time member of MLS’ Best XI squad, will retire at the end of the 2014 MLS season at the age of 32.

Landon Donovan to retire at end of season

Donovan, who played in three World Cups for the United States and was a six-time member of MLS’ Best XI squad, will retire at the end of the 2014 MLS season at the age of 32.     It is a bittersweet end for Donovan, who was left off the 2014 World Cup roster by head coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, but his failure to make that team should not diminish his incredible international and club career.

Donovan is America’s all-time leading goalscorer in World Cups and MLS’ all-time leading goalscorer, a feat he accomplished despite playing much of his career as a wide player and not a pure striker. He won the MLS Cup five times with two different teams, won the Supporters’ Shield (best regular season record) twice, and was twice named MLS All-Star Game MVP, including winning the award after scoring the game-winning goal against Bayern Munich in this year’s game. He was the face of MLS for his entire career in the league, and worked tirelessly to promote the league and the sport in America.

He will be remembered most for his moments of brilliance for the Red, White and Blue. Donovan left an indelible mark on the U.S. national team and its history. Donovan indicated he wanted to work with youth soccer players, possibly at an academy run by the Galaxy.