Kaka, the Brazilian footballer who was once named the best player in the world, has announced his retirement from the game.

Sharing a prayer on Twitter, he thanked God for a career which was "more than I could ever imagined" and said he was ready for the next journey.

Father,
It was much more than I could ever imagined. Thank you! I'm now ready for the next journey. In Jesus name. Amem.

Pai,
Foi muito mais do que eu pedi ou imaginei!Obrigado! Eis-me aqui para próxima jornada. Em nome de Jesus. Amém. pic.twitter.com/PofZBAV0BE

— Kaka (@KAKA) December 17, 2017

In his 17 year stint playing football he starred in some of the best teams in the world including Real Madrid, AC Milan and Sao Paolo.

He also represented his country on 92 occasions and won the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Kaka has been open about his Christian faith throughout his career. He was known for wearing a t-shirt stating "I belong to Jesus" under his team's jersey and for pointing to God after scoring a goal.

In an interview with the Christian charity Athletes in Action, he once said: "It may seem that I have everything.

"Due to my wealth and fame, some people ask why or if I still need Jesus.

"The answer is simple: I need Jesus every day of my life. His Word, the Bible, tells me that without Him, I can't do anything. I really believe that. The ability I have to play football and all that has resulted from it are gifts from God. He has given me a talent to use for Him, and I try to improve on it every day."

The 35-year-old has most recently been playing in the US for MLS team Orlando City.