Craig Gordon retires after remarkable career comeback for Scotland

BBC Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 10:16 AM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Craig Gordon retires after remarkable career comeback for Scotland

Summary

Craig Gordon officially announces his retirement at age 43, concluding a career marked by comebacks from serious injuries. His participation in the 2026 World Cup for Scotland was uncertain due to a severe neck injury earlier this year. Gordon's journey included overcoming the threat of paralysis and more than 1,975 missed days of football due to injuries. He made his debut for Scotland more than 22 years ago and was part of the squad that ended the country's 28-year wait to qualify for the World Cup. Gordon's retirement comes shortly after his World Cup inclusion and highlights the resilience he demonstrated throughout his career.

Source Links

BBC Football

Key Details

•Gordon retires at 43 after a storied career.
•He faced life-threatening injuries yet returned to play.
•Debuted for Scotland over 22 years ago.
•Helped Scotland qualify for World Cup after 28 years.
•Career included multiple surgeries and lengthy recoveries.

Latest Updates

10:16 AMBBC Football — From risk of death to the oldest man at World Cup

What they're saying

"
How Craig Gordon's career - which ended today - had been a series of comebacks and the 43-year-old's World Cup inclusion for Scotland seemed an impossible dream only a few months ago.
— BBC Football

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