Billy Sharp breaks down in tears announcing retirement live on air at 40

Billy Sharp announced his retirement from professional football live on television on Sunday, breaking down in tears after a montage of career highlights was played during his appearance as a pundit ahead of Southampton’s Championship derby against Portsmouth.

Sharp, 40, was visibly unprepared for the tribute, which featured messages from former team-mates and managers and ended with footage of him carrying his young son on his shoulders after his final match for Sheffield United. “I didn’t know that was coming,” he said, his voice breaking. “You make a lot of friends in football and… that was tough.”

Presenter Jules Breach moved to console the former striker, patting him on the shoulder and telling him: “It’s an amazing career. So what is next for you, if you can still talk?”

Sharp, who most recently played for Doncaster last season, used the moment to reflect on a 22-year career and hint at what comes next. “I’ve just had a newborn baby so I’ve taken some time off for that,” he said. “I have taken some time to make that decision. I am incredibly proud of my career.”

The striker also revealed he has completed his coaching badges and the LMA manager diploma, though he stopped short of committing to a specific path. “I do love doing this,” he added, gesturing to the punditry role. “I reckon I can do more.”

Sharp is best remembered for his prolific spell at Sheffield United, where he became one of the most celebrated strikers in the club’s modern history. His career spanned multiple clubs across the English football pyramid, and he remained active in the EFL into his late thirties before his stint at Doncaster last season brought the curtain down on his playing days.