Former Bafana Bafana captain Steven Pienaar has announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to his illustrious 18-year career.

The 35-year-old joined Bidvest Wits at the beginning of the 2017-18 campaign, but was released by the club during the January transfer window.

Pienaar became a household name around the world after playing in Europe for the likes of Ajax Amsterdam, Borussia Dortmund, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland.

He also managed to rack up a total of 62 caps for the South African national team and was part of the squad during the 2002 and 2010 Fifa World Cups.

‘Today I’m announcing my retirement from football,’ Pienaar said in a video posted on Twitter. ‘I just want to say thanks to my mum, my family and all the clubs that I’ve played for and the supporters, of course. How could I forget you guys?

‘Thanks for the love throughout my career. Follow me on social media, there’s an announcement coming soon and you guys will be the first to know.

‘Thanks for the love.’

Over the course of his career, Pienaar has scored a total of 45 goals and assisted a further 75 from 440 appearances in all competitions, playing across four different leagues.

It’s been an amazing ride made more special by you, the fans. Thank You. It’s been an honour. 🙏🏽⚽️ pic.twitter.com/qsy4bZCLjT

— Steven Pienaar (@therealstevenpi) February 28, 2018

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix