Portland Timbers defender Nat Borchers retires

Portland Timbers defender Nat Borchers has retired from professional soccer, the player announced Friday.

The 35-year-old Borchers, who won two MLS titles, played the last two seasons with the Portland Timbers. His 2016 campaign was cut short after he ruptured his left Achilles tendon in July.

“I have given the game everything and will step away extremely grateful to have played 14 professional seasons. While this decision was tremendously difficult, I am proud of my contribution to this chapter of Major League Soccer,” Borchers said in a press release.

“I played for three well-respected MLS clubs, experienced playing abroad, and made some incredible relationships. To be a professional athlete is a privilege, but I didn’t get here alone. Thank you to my family, friends, coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout my career. I am excited for the future challenges that await.”

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Borchers began his 14-year career with the Colorado Rapids in 2003. He moved on to the Norwegian club Odd Grenland in 2005 before joining Real Salt Lake in 2008, where he went on to win an MLS title in 2009 and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2010, his only appearance on the team. 

After a trade with Portland in 2015,  the center back played 31 games for the Timbers and was an important member of their MLS Cup win that season. He played 21 games for the Timbers this year before his season-ending injury.

Borchers was also capped three times for the United States national team. His last appearance with the squad came in November 2010.