Edinburg: Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 43, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned more than two decades.Gordon, who was the oldest player among more than 1,250 footballers selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirmed his decision in a farewell video posted on social media."It has been a privilege to represent you," Gordon said. "I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have. From the bottom of my heart, thank you."The experienced goalkeeper was part of Scotland's World Cup squad but did not feature during the tournament, serving as backup to Angus Gunn throughout the team's three group-stage matches.Gordon made his Scotland debut in 2004 and went on to earn 84 international caps, placing him fifth on the national team's all-time appearance list.At club level, he enjoyed successful spells with Heart of Midlothian, Celtic and Sunderland, establishing himself as one of Scotland's most accomplished goalkeepers of his generation.While Gordon was the oldest player selected for the World Cup, the oldest player to appear in a match at the tournament was Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February.Gordon's retirement closes a notable chapter in Scottish football, ending a career marked by longevity, resilience and consistent performances at both club and international level.
