LA Galaxy forward Landon Donovan will retire from professional soccer at the end of the 2014 Major League Soccer season is made public after "careful deliberation and many conversations."

Donovan, who has spent half of his life playing professional soccer, admitted in his Facebook page that he feels sad but at the same time excited to take on a new chapter of his life as he plans to "pursue other opportunities" that will help him grow as a person.

Donovan, 32, is a significant figure in the history of US soccer. He has made a total of 156 appearances (second-most all time) and received the US Soccer Athlete of the Year award four times. To this day, he tops the US Men's national team in goals and assists. He is also the only player in America who is able to exceed both 50 goals and assists. He is a veteran of 3 FIFA World Cups, one of which has named him Best Young Player of the World Cup. He has also contributed in the U.S.'s four of five Gold Cup titles.

Fans are shocked to hear that Landon Donovan will retire, but they accept his decision to put an end to his successful career and thank him for his noteworthy influences to the sport.

The all-time leading scorer for LA Galaxy, Donovan will leave a legacy. According to Bruce Arena, LA Galaxy head coach and general manager, as published in the team's website, "His influence on MLS and soccer in this country will continue to be felt for many years to come. As both a player and a person, Landon has been an incredible representative of the LA Galaxy, MLS, and the U.S. Men's National Team." Arena also added that they respect his decision to retire.

With Landon Donovan's retirement, his fans are encouraged by his team to use the hashtag #ThanksLD to show gratitude to his contributions in the sport of soccer. Donovan promises to continue supporting soccer in the U.S.