[Saba Sports News] Legendary Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has officially announced his retirement, bringing an end to a 22-year professional career. Ochoa released a video reflecting on his life and playing journey. In the footage, he thanked his family, teammates and supporters, stating: “I gave absolutely everything for club and country. Today, I hang up my gloves.” Ochoa laid particular emphasis on his international career. “I cannot imagine my career without the national team. It was with the national side that I truly understood the weight of responsibility.” Age has taken its toll on Ochoa’s form over the past two years. In an earlier interview with FIFA’s official website, he revealed he would retire following the United States, Canada and Mexico World Cup. Though Ochoa was no longer Mexico’s starting goalkeeper, manager Javier Aguirre handed the historic stalwart a substitute appearance amid roaring crowd applause in the final group-stage fixture against the Czech Republic. Spectators inside the Estadio Azteca chanted “Memo” in unison to witness the veteran’s final dance.
Aged 41, Ochoa began his professional career on 15 February 2004, making his debut for Club América against Monterrey at the Estadio Azteca. In 2014, Ochoa joined Málaga. He subsequently represented Granada, Standard Liège, Club América, Salernitana, AVS and Limassol across his career. On the international stage, Ochoa earned his first cap for Mexico on 14 December 2005. He went on to register 154 appearances for his country, keeping 64 clean sheets.