THE END!!! Thierry Henry Retires from FOOTBALL

 In announcing the end of a distinguished 20-year career, Thierry Henry made it clear where he felt more cherished.

It wasn't France, for which he won the 1998 World Cup, remains the national team's leading goal-scorer, and second-most capped player.

Henry, who speaks French, English and Spanish, decided to announce his retirement by posting a message in English on his Facebook page, and via a statement from his future employer, Sky Sports in Britain.

"The English have made a statue of him, but in France, he has not always been recognized at his full worth," said Frederic Thiriez, the president of the French league. "(He) will, nonetheless, remain a legend. He was an exceptional striker."

The statue of Henry, on his knees celebrating a goal, stands outside the home stadium of Arsenal, where he is regarded as the Gunners' greatest player.

The 37-year-old Henry was linked to a potential coaching role with Arsenal after ending his career at the New York Red Bulls, but said he will become a TV analyst.

http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/1998-world-cup-winner-thierry-henry-retires-27635178

Henry holds the French record of 51 goals in 123 internationals, but he never achieved the same popularity as Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini, Raymond Kopa or even Just Fontaine.