Scotland's Craig Gordon faces final chapter after World Cup call

Scotland’s 43‑year‑old goalkeeper Craig Gordon announced his retirement on Thursday, ending a career that saw him become the oldest player named in the World Cup squad of more than 1,250 selected. He made the statement in a video message, thanking fans and reflecting on his time with Heart of Midlothian, Celtic and Sunderland.

A photograph by Scott Heppell of AP captured Gordon watching Scotland’s international friendly soccer match against Curacao in Glasgow on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The image shows the veteran keeper on the sidelines as the teams prepared for the game.

In the video posted to social media, Gordon said, “It has been a privilege to represent you.” He added, “I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.” The announcement was made from Edinburgh, Scotland.

Gordon’s club career includes his current role at Heart of Midlothian and former spells with Celtic and Sunderland. He has been a prominent figure in Scottish soccer for years.

He made his Scotland debut in 2004 and accumulated 84 caps, placing him fifth on the national team’s all‑time appearance list.

At the World Cup, Gordon served as backup to Angus Gunn, who started all three group games. Gunn moved to the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer last week, and Gordon was the oldest among the more than 1,250 players selected for the tournament.

Gordon did not feature on the pitch during the tournament, while the record for oldest player to appear was set by Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February.

His retirement concludes a career that began over two decades ago and leaves Scotland without one of its most experienced goalkeepers.