Former French midfielder Dimitri Payet announced his retirement from professional football on Sunday after a 21-year career.
The 38-year-old, who has been without a club for nine months after a spell at Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, made the announcement during an emotional live interview during half-time of the Ligue 1 match between hosts Olympique de Marseille and Lille at the Stade Velodrome.
Payet struggled to hold back tears as he confirmed the decision at the club’s home ground, where he enjoyed his most successful years in two separate spells.
Dimitri Payet France career
Total number of matches: 38
Goals: 8
Assistants: 9
Coach on debut: Laurent Blanc
The Réunion-born player began his professional career with FC Nantes in 2005. He went on to earn 38 caps for France, scoring eight goals and was a prominent member of the side that reached the final of the European Championship in 2016, losing 0-1 to Portugal in extra time.
«I want to take two minutes to thank everyone – to thank everyone who shared these 20 years with me. It was something extraordinary,» he said.
«I come from an island and my dream was to become a professional. I made it and did it at the highest level for 20 years. I managed to play for the national team and today is the end of a wonderful journey.»
Despite a career without a major trophy, Payet established himself as a leading set-piece specialist at both Marseille and Premier League side West Ham United.
Published on March 23, 2026
