Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - United States defender DaMarcus Beasley announced his retirement from national team duty on Monday, releasing a statement via his personal Instagram account.

Beasley, 32, the only American to play at four World Cups, made his international debut in 2001 and has made 121 appearances for the Stars and Stripes, his last coming as a late sub as the USA lost to Colombia at Craven Cottage back in November.

He has won four Gold Cups and scored 17 goals during his international career, while playing in all four games for the U.S. at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"Where do I start? Honestly I never thought this day would come, representing my country has been the greatest thing I've done in my career. Every time I've pulled on our colors I tried to represent myself, my family and my country with the utmost respect.(and obviously tried to win) With that being said, I have officially retired from the U.S. Nat'l team," Beasley said. "I've been blessed to be apart of the United States Soccer Federation family for 17 yrs.

"I have so many memories from when I started with the U-15 nat'l team all the way to the men's team. I've met so many great people along the way I wouldn't know where to start. To all my coaches and teammates, I just want to say thank you, thank you for making me the player I am and the man I will be in the future.

"I will never forget all the games, friendships, memories we all shared. One thing I hope you all will say about me is that I was a good teammate and always left everything on the field when I played. And lastly I want to thank all the fans that have supported me and the U.S. Team, without you guys we wouldn't be where we are today! Thank you all!!!"

Beasley has had stints with Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Glasgow Rangers, Hannover, Puebla and Chicago Fire before returning to Major League Soccer with Houston in 2014.