Craig Gordon, Oldest Player at 2026 World Cup, Announces Retirement After 25-Year Career

Craig Gordon, the 43-year-old Scottish goalkeeper and the oldest player named in Scotland's squad for the 2026 World Cup, has announced his retirement from professional football. This decision marks the end of a distinguished 25-year career in the sport.

Gordon began and concluded his career at Hearts, the Edinburgh-based club where he was trained as a youth. Over the years, he represented several clubs and his national team, becoming a prominent figure in Scottish football. Despite being included in Scotland's World Cup squad in 2026, he did not feature in any match minutes during the tournament. His career spanned numerous highs and lows, including significant injuries and notable achievements.

Throughout his career, Gordon experienced a series of physical challenges, including a severe knee injury that sidelined him for two years. Nevertheless, he made a successful return to top-level football in 2014 with Celtic, where he contributed to winning five Scottish Premiership titles. His resilience was further tested in 2022 when he suffered a double leg fracture but managed to recover and continue competing at a high level.

One of the highlights of Gordon's career was his transfer from Hearts to Sunderland in 2007 for approximately 10.5 million euros. At the time, this fee set a British record for a goalkeeper, underscoring his reputation and value in the market. Internationally, Gordon earned 84 caps for Scotland since his debut in 2004, reflecting his long-standing importance to the national team.

In total, Craig Gordon played 766 official matches across club and international football. His emotional farewell message, released by Hearts, expressed gratitude for the career he lived and the dreams he fulfilled. "I never wanted this to end, but the time has come. I lived my dreams, and for that, I am deeply grateful," he said.

Looking ahead, Hearts and Scottish football will now move forward without one of their most experienced goalkeepers. The club and national team will likely focus on integrating new talent in the goalkeeper position as they prepare for upcoming domestic and international competitions. Gordon's retirement also closes a significant chapter in Scottish football history, marked by his longevity and resilience at the highest levels of the game.