Bridgeview, IL (Sports Network) - Chicago Fire defender Cory Gibbs announced his retirement on Monday after a 12-year professional career.
Gibbs enjoyed time playing in Europe as well as Major League Soccer, where he spent the final four years of his career.
"It was a tough decision," said Gibbs. "After discussing it with the medical staff, my wife and family, it is the right time for me to step away from the playing field. I've done everything in my power to return to the game, however, my latest injury has made it too difficult to play again. It was an honor to represent the United States and the Fire, along with all of the clubs I played with throughout my career. I would also like to thank all of my teammates, coaches, the fans and my family, especially my wife, for all of their support along this journey. I am truly excited to transition into a new venture in my career. Coaching, working for a club and scouting are my greatest desires. I will be as committed off the pitch as when I was playing."
Gibbs spent three seasons with St. Pauli in Germany before playing one season with the Dallas Burn in MLS in 2004.
He signed with Dutch club Feyenoord in 2005 and was then loaned to Den Haag following an injury.
In 2008, Gibbs returned to MLS and was allocated to the Colorado Rapids, where he spent two seasons before moving on to New England.
Gibbs played the remainder of his career in Chicago after being selected in the MLS Re-Entry Draft on Dec. 15, 2010, and he featured in 26 matches the following season, netting three goals with one assist.
But after starting Chicago's first three matches of this past season, Gibbs sustained a meniscus injury in training and was out for the rest of the campaign.
A U.S. international, Gibbs earned 19 caps for his country after first featuring against New Zealand in 2003.
