Former Wales, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Crystal Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 38-year-old made 109 caps for Wales in a 18-year career for his country, including as first-choice at the 2016 European Championships.

In September 2020, Hennessey broke Neville Southall’s Wales clean sheet record by keeping his 35th clean sheet in a 1-0 Nations League win over Finland. Two years later, against the Czech Republic, he became the first male player to win 100 caps for his country.

Perhaps his final significant contribution in the red of Wales came in June 2022, when Hennessey made nine saves against Ukraine, helping his side to a 1-0 victory, securing qualification to Wales’ first World Cup in 64 years.

Hennessey was born in Bangor and is a fluent Welsh speaker. He came through the Wolves academy, making his debut as a teenager in the Championship play-offs, making 166 appearances for the club, before leaving to Crystal Palace in 2013.

He played 132 times for Palace in the Premier League, before falling out of favour and moving to Burnley and Nottingham Forest in recent seasons.

“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 in a statement on Instagram.

“I have amazing memories playing for both club and country. 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. 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.”

The statement continued: “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. 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.

“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. I also want to pay tribute to my agent David Manasseh for his guidance as I navigated my career.

“The greatest thanks of all go to my family and Kirsty my wife, who have constantly supported me throughout my career, providing love and encouragement through all the ups and downs.”

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