Wales goalkeeping great Hennessey retires
The 38-year-old's career lasted almost two decades, during which he played 109 times for Wales - a national record in his position - and was part of the side that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2016.
Advertisement
Hennessey made his professional club debut in 2006 for Wolverhampton Wanderers, playing on loan for clubs including Bristol City, Stockport County and Yeovil Town, before permanent moves to Crystal Palace, Burnley and his final club Nottingham Forest.
"I have decided to bring my playing career to an end, I look back with gratitude and forward with optimism as I take the next steps on my footballing journey," Hennessey said on social media.
Hennessey made just nine appearances for Forest after joining on a free transfer from Burnley in 2022, with a serious Achilles tendon injury at the end of the 2023-24 season curtailing his involvement.
Despite a lack of games, Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo still offered Hennessey a new short-term deal in January 2025 until the end of the season.
Advertisement
It is possible that Hennessey could remain with Forest by joining the backroom staff, but there has been no firm confirmation of him taking his first steps into coaching.
"I have amazing memories playing for both club and country," Hennessey added.
"From my early days at Wolves, loans at Stockport and Yeovil, and my time with Crystal Palace, Burnley and Nottingham Forest, each club shaped me both on and off the field.
"Having been born and raised in north Wales, it was always my dream to play at the highest level. It was a privilege to play in the Premier League and for my country over 100 times.
Advertisement
"The summer of 2016 was the pinnacle of my career having made the FA Cup final with Palace and the semi-finals of the Euros with my beloved Wales."
Hennessey made his senior international debut for Wales in a 2–2 friendly draw against New Zealand on 26 May 2007, with his final cap coming as a half-time substitute against Gibraltar in Wrexham in October 2023.
He was instrumental as Wales qualified for Euro 2016, the men's side reaching their first major international tournament since the 1958 World Cup.
Hennessey missed their opening game of the tournament, a 2–1 victory over Slovakia, because of a back spasm, but started the remaining matches as Wales reached the semi-finals - famously beating Belgium 3-1 win in the quarters - before losing to Portugal.
Advertisement
He was also part of the sides that played at Euro 2020 and then the 2022 World Cup - although during the second group game against Iran, a 2-0 loss, Hennessey became just the third goalkeeper in World Cup history to be sent off, dismissed for a foul on Mehdi Taremi.
The loss of his veteran goalkeeper was another blow to then national boss Rob Page as Wales exited at the group stage.
"It has been an honour to play alongside and against some sensational players and working with some incredible managers, coaches, medical, media and support staff," added Hennessey, who also thanked his family and agent for their backing.
"I also acknowledge the formidable bond of the goalkeepers' union I've experienced throughout my career: working together day-to-day, supportive and encouraging regardless who starts.
Advertisement
"Fans have been the backbone of support throughout my playing days, especially during the many times I suffered from injuries, I was able to draw so much strength from your support."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Washington Post
35 minutes ago
- Washington Post
Qatar sets sights on 2036 Olympics by creating bid committee for the Games
DOHA, Qatar — The Qatar Olympic Committee on Wednesday announced the creation of a bid committee for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympic Games, confirming its intention to host the events that would come 14 years after it staged the World Cup. It's the latest attempt by the Middle Eastern country to host the Summer Games, after Doha was overlooked by the International Olympic Committee in favor of Brisbane for the 2032 Olympics . On two other occasions, Doha did not progress to the IOC's list of candidates.
Fox Sports
an hour ago
- Fox Sports
Qatar sets sights on 2036 Olympics by creating bid committee for the Games
Associated Press DOHA, Qatar (AP) — The Qatar Olympic Committee on Wednesday announced the creation of a bid committee for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympic Games, confirming its intention to host the events that would come 14 years after it staged the World Cup. It's the latest attempt by the Middle Eastern country to host the Summer Games, after Doha was overlooked by the International Olympic Committee in favor of Brisbane for the 2032 Olympics. On two other occasions, Doha did not progress to the IOC's list of candidates. The Qatari committee said the country, which was criticized by human rights defenders ahead of the World Cup, 'has firmly established itself as a global hub for major international sporting events ... (and) has successfully hosted numerous world championships across multiple disciplines and invested in world-class infrastructure that reflects the country's long-term commitment to excellence and sustainability in sport.' The QOC said the bid committee will 'engage national stakeholders and international partners to shape a proposal that is technically strong, socially inclusive and globally relevant.' 'The bid will reflect a unified national vision that builds on Qatar's track record, speaks to the potential of the region and upholds the enduring values of excellence, friendship and respect that define the Olympic and Paralympic movements,' the committee said. The committee didn't address when in 2036 it would propose to host the Games. The World Cup had to be held in November and December because of the extreme heat in the region. The IOC prefers the traditional July-August slot. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee, will serve as bid committee chairman. ___ AP Sports: in this topic
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Qatar sets sights on 2036 Olympics by creating bid committee for the Games
DOHA, Qatar (AP) — The Qatar Olympic Committee on Wednesday announced the creation of a bid committee for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympic Games, confirming its intention to host the events that would come 14 years after it staged the World Cup. It's the latest attempt by the Middle Eastern country to host the Summer Games, after Doha was overlooked by the International Olympic Committee in favor of Brisbane for the 2032 Olympics. On two other occasions, Doha did not progress to the IOC's list of candidates. The Qatari committee said the country, which was criticized by human rights defenders ahead of the World Cup, 'has firmly established itself as a global hub for major international sporting events ... (and) has successfully hosted numerous world championships across multiple disciplines and invested in world-class infrastructure that reflects the country's long-term commitment to excellence and sustainability in sport.' The QOC said the bid committee will 'engage national stakeholders and international partners to shape a proposal that is technically strong, socially inclusive and globally relevant.' 'The bid will reflect a unified national vision that builds on Qatar's track record, speaks to the potential of the region and upholds the enduring values of excellence, friendship and respect that define the Olympic and Paralympic movements,' the committee said. The committee didn't address when in 2036 it would propose to host the Games. The World Cup had to be held in November and December because of the extreme heat in the region. The IOC prefers the traditional July-August slot. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee, will serve as bid committee chairman. ___ AP Sports:
