Eden Hazard, the renowned former forward for Chelsea and Real Madrid, has chosen to retire from professional sports at the age of 32. The Belgian athlete, who achieved remarkable success during his career, made this significant announcement via social media on a Tuesday. Hazard, a player who clinched the Premier League title twice during his tenure at Chelsea, made a move to Real Madrid in 2019.
However, despite the high expectations following his transfer, Hazard’s time at Real Madrid was marred by frequent injuries, restricting him to just 76 appearances over four seasons before his departure in the summer. Expressing his thoughts on Instagram, he emphasized the importance of listening to oneself and knowing when to step away from the game, after dedicating 16 years and participating in over 700 matches as a professional footballer.
Reflecting on his accomplished career, Hazard expressed gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill his dream and relish playing on numerous pitches worldwide. He acknowledged the privilege of interacting with exceptional managers, coaches, teammates, and the support of clubs like LOSC, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, as well as the Belgian national team. Hazard extended heartfelt appreciation to his family, friends, advisors, and fans who stood by him throughout his journey.
The footballer, awarded the PFA Player of the Year in 2015, conveyed his intention to focus on spending quality time with loved ones and exploring new endeavors. He bid farewell to the sport and expressed anticipation for the future. Throughout his tenure at Stamford Bridge, Hazard achieved remarkable success, securing two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues, the FA Cup, and the League Cup. Following his move to Real Madrid with a substantial £130 million contract in 2019, Hazard’s time at the Bernabeu was marked by challenges, including injuries and a dip in form.
During his tenure at Real Madrid, he managed to score seven goals in 76 appearances, with ten of those goals coming during the 2022/23 season in various competitions. The club, however, still achieved significant victories during his time, securing two LaLiga titles, a Champions League title, and a Copa Del Rey. Hazard’s retirement marks the end of an era in football, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered and celebrated by fans and the football community.