Former Feyenoord defender Gernot Trauner retires at 34

Former Feyenoord defender Gernot Trauner has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34. The Austrian said the decision was difficult but felt that the time was right to close a playing career spanning 16 years.

Trauner established himself in the Netherlands after joining Feyenoord from LASK in 2021. He went on to make 137 appearances for the Rotterdam club, although his spell was also interrupted by several serious injuries and subsequent recoveries.

In a statement on social media reported by Voetbal International, Trauner said: “A new chapter begins and I look forward to new challenges.” He expressed gratitude to his parents, coaches, mentors, friends, family and supporters, while reflecting with pride on titles, cup victories, Champions League football, the European Championship and his role as a captain.

Trauner began his senior career in Austria and represented SV Kematen, SV Ried and LASK before moving to Feyenoord. He played 112 matches for Ried and 173 for LASK, while he also earned 16 senior international caps for Austria. He said injuries and disappointments had taught him humility, but added that he remained grateful to have turned his passion for football into his profession.