NEW YORK, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Clint Dempsey, one of the U.S. legendary strikers, announced his retirement from soccer on Wednesday.

"After a lot of thought, my family and I have decided that this is the right time for me to step away from the game," Dempsey, 35, said in a statement issued by MLS side Seattle Sounders where he has played as a striker for five years.

"I'd like to thank all of the teammates, coaches and support staff that I've worked with throughout my career. It has always been my dream to make it as a pro. I'm grateful to have been on this ride. I would like to thank all of the fans who have supported me throughout my career with the New England Revolution, Fulham, Tottenham, Seattle Sounders and the U.S. men's national team," he added.

For the U.S. national team, Dempsey scored 57 goals in 141 appearances. As the skipper of the U.S. World Cup team in 2014, Dempsey helped the side survive group stage in Brazil.

"Clint Dempsey has been one of the most impactful players in the history of the sport in our country. From his early success with the New England Revolution to his achievements both as a top player in the English Premier League and for the U.S. Men's National Team, Clint showed us that there are no limits for an American player," MLS commissioner Don Garber said. Enditem