The Associated Press

FILE - In this Oct. 16, 2010, file photo, Toronto FC defender Nick Garcia, left, battles for the ball against Columbus Crew midfielder Robbie Rogers, right, during first half MLS soccer action in Toronto. Former MLS and U.S. national team player Robbie Rogers says he is gay. In a post on his personal website, Rogers writes: "Life is only complete when your loved ones know you. ... Try explaining to your loved ones after 25 years you are gay." (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Nathan Denette, File)

By RICK FREEMAN AP Sports Writer

Robbie Rogers, a former player for the U.S. national team and Major League Soccer, says he is gay and ‘‘could not be happier’’ about his decision to go public with his disclosure.

In a post on his personal website, Rogers writes: ‘‘Life is only complete when your loved ones know you. ... Try explaining to your loved ones after 25 years you are gay.’’

Rogers’ agent, Shaun Higgins, confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday that the post was from his client. Rogers, who linked his Friday post from his Twitter account, said he was retiring.

‘‘It’s time discover myself away from football,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s 1 a.m. in London as I write this and I could not be happier with my decision. Life is so full of amazing things. I realized I could only truly enjoy my life once I was honest.’’

The midfielder has been receiving an outpouring of support from American teammates, players in England’s professional leagues, soccer officials and others around the world.