New England Revolution defender Chris Tierney, 32, announced his retirement on Thursday, bringing an end to his 11-year career with his hometown team.
Tierney, who grew up in nearby Wellesley, Massachusetts, was selected by the Revs in the 2008 Supplemental Draft. He made 246 appearances for New England, third most in club history, and scored 13 goals throughout his career.
"After 11 seasons, the time has come for me to step away from the game I love," said Tierney, the longest-tenured field player in team history. "I feel honored and privileged to have been able to live my dream of playing for the club I grew up supporting. The New England Revolution has always been, and will continue to be, a huge part of my life. Retirement has been a difficult decision, but I walk away with the satisfaction of knowing that I gave everything I had."
Tierney was named the club's Defender of the Year in 2016, a season after earning his first MLS All-Star selection. Tierney scored in the 2014 MLS Cup Final, a 79th-minute strike that sent the game into extra time. The LA Galaxy went on to win the match.
He played 20 or more matches for the Revs eight years in a row, and his 40 career assists are tied for fourth most in club history, including 16 game-winning helpers.
Tierney missed most of the 2018 season after suffering a torn ACL in May.