FORMER Swindon Town defender Mathieu Baudry has written a heartfelt message confirming his retirement from playing, revealing medical advice ultimately forced him into the decision.

Baudry finished his career at Swindon this summer, having suffered an ACL injury in a behind-closed-doors mid-season friendly against Newport County in December 2022.

Prior to that, the Frenchman – born in Le Havre – played for seven clubs, including: ESTAC Troyes, AFC Bournemouth, Dagenham and Redbridge, Leyton Orient, Doncaster Rovers, Milton Keynes Dons, and Swindon.

But after 351 professional games which included four promotions, two relegations, three play-off campaigns, a Wembley appearance, and “countless injuries”, Baudry has hung his boots up for good.

In a lengthy statement on his Instagram, the 35-year-old admitted the decision was not one he took lightly.

Baudry said: “The end of a chapter, I took my time. It’s a big decision to make but the surgeon has made it for me. My football journey is finishing here.

“It is a big moment because my life has always been around football, something I’ve shared with my family, dad, grandad, and brother from an early age and was blessed to share it at the end with my son.

“I made some memories you can’t buy. It’s also been challenging at times, mainly through injuries.

“I didn’t get to achieve everything I wanted but I have no regrets because I gave everything.

“It cost me at times as my body didn’t allow me to. But at least I don’t look back and think I could have pushed myself more. I’m proud of what I done and how I faced adversity.

“Thanks to everyone that has been on the journey with me and everyone that I’ve come across, teammates, coaches, employees, fans, opponents. You made it special.”

Since the start of this year, Baudry has begun working as a translator with former club Bournemouth as he makes the transition between careers.

Going on to talk about the next stage of his life, Baudry said spending more time with his family – who he admitted made so many sacrifices to help his playing career – is one of the key aspects he is looking forward to.

He said: “I am now ready for what comes next. I have prepared for some time now. I love football and it’s been all my life, but I never seen myself as a footballer. I just played football.

“Life isn’t ending now; I have a lot of things I want to do and want to achieve. Looking forward to being able to spend more times with my family.

“I’m excited with the new chapter that has already started… Peace, Frenchy.”