Ex-England and Manchester City star Toni Duggan has announced her retirement after 17 illustrious years in the sport.
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Duggan hangs up her bootsWon the WSL with Man City in 2016Has 22 goals in 79 appearances for EnglandWHAT HAPPENED?
At 33 years old, Duggan leaves behind a legacy as one of England's most accomplished female footballers, having earned 79 caps for her country. She also played for some of the biggest clubs in world football, including Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Duggan's career began at Everton and in 2013 she made a high-profile move to City, which would prove to be a pivotal moment in her career. During her four-year stint in Manchester, Duggan helped the club secure four major trophies, including their first-ever Women’s Super League (WSL) title in 2016. In 2017, Duggan made history by becoming the first English player to sign for Barcelona since Gary Lineker in 1986. She contributed to the club’s domestic success and helped them reach the Women’s Champions League final in 2019.
WHAT DUGGAN SAID
In an interview with , she reflected on her career and said: "I saw an old interview. I was 27 and playing in Spain at the time. They asked 'what is your biggest fear?' – and I said 'retirement'. It is weird now, sitting here, and today is the day. I’ve been so lucky with the career I’ve had and I’ve loved every single minute.
"I just think it’s made me the person I am. I was a little girl who grew up on the streets of Liverpool who wanted to play football. I wanted to be accepted. We had to fight for everything we wanted but when I look back, the journey has just been more than I could ever have dreamed of. To everyone who has played their part – family, friends, coaches and everyone involved – thank you."
DID YOU KNOW?
As Duggan transitions into the next phase of her life, she takes pride in her career achievements, noting that her most important accomplishment was staying true to herself.
"I have been myself all along – that’s what makes me most proud," she said. "I was always a winner and wanted to win from the first day I kicked a ball. To have those trophies and memories is nice. But the fact I can walk away and say I did it my way, had fun, competed in everything and had great support, just gives me memories to last forever."
