Tim Krul Announces Retirement from Professional Football

Goalkeeper Tim Krul retires after glorious career

Tim Krul announces his retirement from professional football at 37, ending a distinguished career with 429 senior appearances and 15 international caps.

“As I hang up my gloves after 20 incredible years as a professional football player, I want to take...”

Tim Krul, the former Newcastle United and Netherlands goalkeeper, has announced his retirement from professional football at 37. With a career spanning over 20 years, Krul made a lasting impact on the sport.

Krul began his professional career at Newcastle United, joining the club as a 17-year-old and becoming the first-choice goalkeeper between 2010 and 2015. During his time with the Magpies, he played 184 games, showcasing his skills and bravery in one-on-one situations.

This is where it all began, at the age of 5, a boy with big dreams. 32 years later, I've returned to the same place, I couldn’t have imagined the rollercoaster journey I would experience. There are so many memories that words can’t describe.
Thanks for it all.
Forever grateful pic.twitter.com/EFXWAho3zQ

— Tim Krul (@TimKrul) September 23, 2025

One of Krul's most memorable moments came during the 2014 World Cup, where he helped the Netherlands defeat Costa Rica in a penalty shootout. Coming on as a substitute, Krul saved two penalties, cementing his place in Dutch football history.

Throughout his career, Krul played for several clubs, including Norwich City and Luton Town, accumulating 429 senior appearances. He also earned 15 caps for the Netherlands, with his last international appearance in 2021. Krul expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches and fans, and is excited for the next chapter in his life.

“As I hang up my gloves after 20 incredible years as a professional football player, I want to take a moment to reflect on my journey,” Krul said.

“From joining Newcastle as a 17-year-old boy, to representing Holland on the international stage. I have truly lived the dream I had as a young boy. Every match, every training session, and every rollercoaster moment has shaped me into who I am today.”

Tim Krul's aura.😳

10 years ago today, Louis van Gaal made THAT substitution.@OnsOranje | @TimKrul pic.twitter.com/sbpD7rw2oi

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 5, 2024

Tim Krul played a total of 429 senior-level games between 2006 and 2024, representing several clubs, including:

• Newcastle United: 184 appearances
• Falkirk: 22 appearances (on loan)
• Carlisle United: 9 appearances (on loan)
• Jong Ajax: 6 appearances (on loan)
• AZ Alkmaar: 16 appearances (on loan)
• Brighton & Hove Albion: 5 appearances
• Norwich City: 169 appearances
• Luton Town: 6 appearances

Krul earned 15 caps for the Netherlands national team, debuting in a friendly against Brazil on June 4, 2011. His most notable moment came during the 2014 World Cup, where he saved two penalties in a shootout against Costa Rica. Krul's last international game was against Scotland on June 2, 2021.

In his retirement announcement, Krul expressed gratitude to the clubs, coaches, teammates, family, and fans who supported him throughout his 20-year career. He is excited for the next chapter in his life, saying, “Here's to new adventures off the pitch!.”