Nat Borchers announces retirement

Nat Borchers is stepping away from professional soccer.

The 35-year-old American defender announced his retirement Friday, bringing an end to a 14-year career. Borchers walks away from the sport with a pair of MLS Cup titles, with Real Salt Lake in 2009 and the Portland Timbers in 2015.

"I have given the game everything and will step away extremely grateful to have played 14 professional seasons," Borchers said on the Timbers' website.

"While this decision was tremendously difficult, I am proud of my contribution to this chapter of Major League Soccer. I played for three well-respected MLS clubs, experienced playing abroad, and made some incredible relationships.

"To be a professional athlete is a privilege, but I didn’t get here alone. Thank you to my family, friends, coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout my career. I am excited for the future challenges that await."

Borchers spent his last two seasons with Portland, but saw his 2016 season come to a premature end after suffering an Achilles injury in July.