England record goalscorer Ellen White announced her retirement.

Ellen White has announced her retirement from professional football at the age of 33.

The England striker, who is the country’s record goalscorer with 46 goals in 118 appearances, made the announcement on social media on Wednesday. “It is with immense pride and joy that I announce my retirement from professional football,” she wrote. “It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent England and Manchester City, and I will be forever grateful to everyone who has helped me throughout my career.”

White made her senior debut for England in 2006 and went on to score some of the most important goals in the country’s history, including the equaliser against Japan in the 2011 World Cup final.

She also played a pivotal role in England’s bronze medal success at the 2015 World Cup, scoring three goals as the Lionesses finished third. At club level, White enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Manchester City, winning four WSL titles and five FA Cups.

“Ellen White is one of the most prolific goalscorers England has ever produced,” said England head coach Phil Neville. “Ellen will go down as a true England great, and I would like to thank her for everything she has done for the team.”

Manchester City also paid tribute to White, with club captain Steph Houghton hailing her as an “inspiration”. “Ellen has been an inspiration to everyone at Manchester City, both on and off the pitch,” said Houghton. “She is a true pioneer of the women’s game and her legacy will live on forever.”

“It is with much thought and consideration that I have decided to retire from professional football,” said White in a statement. “I have been so blessed to have had the opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level for more than two decades, and I am thankful for every moment. I want to thank my coaches, teammates, and the staff at both Arsenal and England for their support throughout my career. I am also grateful to the fans who have supported me throughout my time in the game.”

White retires as England’s all-time leading goalscorer, having scored 46 goals in 130 appearances for her country. She also holds the record for most goals scored in a single Women’s World Cup tournament, with 10 goals in 2019.

“Ellen White has been an outstanding player for Arsenal and England over many years,” said England head coach Phil Neville. “She is a role model for young players, both on and off the pitch, and I would like to thank her for her contribution to the game.”

White will continue to be involved in the game as an ambassador for the FA Girls’ Football School Partnerships Programme.