Frankfurt's German striker Sasic retires from professional women's soccer

Frankfurt's striker Celia Sasic retires from soccer with 27 years, the German international confirmed in a statement via the official DFB (German Soccer Association) homepage on Thursday.

"Football has accompanied me my whole life and it will be always a part of me. I was able to experience 11 unforgettable years in the women's Bundesliga and 10 and a half years with the German women's national team. That makes me proud. Nevertheless, I have now decided to break new ground and to retire from professional soccer," Sasic said.

The 27-year-old striker made her debut for Germany against Australia in 2005. She played 111 caps and scored 63 goals ever since. Sasic clinched the top scorer trophy recently at the FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada. However, Sasic squandered an awarded penalty at the semifinal allowing the United States to progress into the final following a 2-0 victory.

"I regret Celia's decision but I can also understand her. Soccer is not everything in life. There comes a time where you have to have different priorities. For us, this is a real loss because Celia is an important figure," German women's team coach Silvia Neid said.

Sasic lifted the European Championships title in 2009 and 2013 with Germany and wrapped up the German Cup in 2014 and UEFA Champions League title in 2015 with Frankfurt.

"I'm looking forward to a lot of new things. I want to complete my study, pursue my career, raise a family and much more," Sasic added. Endi