Nils Petersen Announces Retirement from Professional Football
Freiburg Forward Bids Farewell to Beloved Home Crowd
Former German International Ends Career After 17 Years
Nils Petersen, born on December 6, 1988, has announced his retirement from professional football after 17 years on the pitch. The German forward, known for his goal-scoring prowess and dedication to his hometown club SC Freiburg, played his final match in front of an emotional home crowd on Saturday.
Petersen, who hails from Wernigerode, Germany, has spent the majority of his career at Freiburg. After a brief stint with FC Bayern Munich II in his early years, he returned to Freiburg in 2015 and quickly became a fan favorite. Over the past eight seasons, he has scored an impressive 99 goals in 231 appearances for the club.
Internationally, Petersen represented Germany at the U-21 and senior levels. He made his debut for the full national team in 2018 and went on to earn seven caps. However, his international career was hampered by injuries and competition from other talented forwards.
Now, at the age of 33, Petersen has decided to hang up his boots. In a heartfelt message to the Freiburg crowd, he expressed his gratitude for the support he has received over the years. "This club has been my home for so long, and I cannot thank the fans enough for their love and encouragement," he said.
SC Freiburg, in recognition of Petersen's contributions, has extended his contract to keep him involved with the club in a non-playing role. The details of his new position are yet to be announced.
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