Donovan confirms retirement: 'I'm done'
Landon Donovan has called off another miraculous comeback to professional football.
The United States' all-time leading goal-scorer made an unexpected return to the field in the 2016 MLS season, turning up at his old stomping ground of StubHub Center to help the LA Galaxy cope in the absence of Gyasi Zardes.
Related - Watch: Super-sub Donovan scores 1st goal since coming out of retirement
Following one goal in nine appearances, though, the Galaxy opted against extending his terms in California, and Donovan has subsequently chosen to hang up his boots for good.
"Yeah, I'm done," Donovan told Yahoo Sports' Joe Lago. "I'm done. No more playing for me.
"I have not (gone public). But that is definitely the case."
Stepping away from the game is a significant departure from when Donovan was tipping himself to be able to contribute for the national team once again in September. He retires as a two-time MLS MVP, four-time U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year winner, and with a stunning record of 160 goals and 151 assists in 384 regular- and post-season MLS appearances.
He began his career with Bayer Leverkusen, before returning to his homeland in stays with the San Jose Earthquakes and the Galaxy. He also took in loan spells with Bayern Munich and Everton.
On the international stage, Donovan tallied 57 goals and 57 assists in 157 caps.