Former Japan striker Teruaki Kurobe announced his retirement on his official website on Friday, his 37th birthday.

“I have had the support of many different people over 15 years as a pro and all I can say is that I am grateful to the teachers, coaches and players that I have been involved with,” Kurobe said.

Kurobe joined Kyoto Purple Sanga (now Kyoto Sanga) in 2000 and helped the club win its first domestic title in the 2002 Emperor’s Cup final, snatching a dramatic late winner as Kyoto came from behind to beat Kashima Antlers 2-1.

He had spells with a handful of clubs, including Cerezo Osaka and Urawa Reds, and was playing last year in Thailand at TTM Customs.

Kurobe scored 28 goals in 114 appearances in the J. League top flight and won four caps for Japan.