Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini has retired from professional soccer after a 22-year career. The 39-year-old Chiellini's decision was announced Tuesday by Los Angeles FC, his club for the past 1 1/2 seasons following 17 years at Juventus. Chiellini also announced his decision on social media, calling his career "the most beautiful and intense journey of my life."

Chiellini won nine consecutive Serie A titles at Juventus and was named the Italian league's top defender three times. His club won five Italian Cups and five Italian Super Cups during his tenure at the Turin powerhouse. Chiellini then played a major role at LAFC, which won the MLS Cup title and Supporters' Shield in 2022 before reaching the MLS Cup championship game again last weekend, falling to Columbus 2-1.