When people talk about memorable World Cup moments, one story always pops up: Tim Krul coming off the bench for the Netherlands in 2014 and becoming a hero in a penalty shootout. Now, after two decades of professional soccer, the Dutch goalkeeper has decided to retire at the age of 37. His announcement marks the end of a career filled with ups, downs, and unforgettable saves.
In this article, we’ll look at Tim Krul’s journey, why he became such a beloved figure in world soccer, and how his story connects to some of the big lessons and facts about the game.
Starting Out: A Boy With a Dream
Tim Krul was born in The Hague, Netherlands, in 1988. Like many kids in Europe, he grew up loving soccer. He was just 17 years old when he joined Newcastle United, a Premier League club in England. Moving from the Netherlands to the tough world of English football was not easy. But Tim Krul showed determination.
💡 Soccer Fact: Did you know that most professional soccer players are scouted when they are teenagers? Many leave home young to join academies in different countries. This shows how early the journey begins for those who dream of the big stage.
For Tim Krul, Newcastle wasn’t just another club. It became his home for over a decade, and it’s where he built his reputation as a strong and reliable goalkeeper.
The Newcastle Years (2006–2017)
Tim Krul’s big breakthrough came between 2010 and 2015, when he was Newcastle United’s first-choice goalkeeper. During that time, he played 185 matches for the Magpies. Fans at St. James’ Park will remember him for his reflex saves, bravery in one-on-one situations, and ability to keep calm under pressure.
One of his standout seasons was 2011–12, when Newcastle finished fifth in the Premier League under manager Alan Pardew. Tim Krul’s performances that year earned him huge praise, and he was considered one of the top goalkeepers in England.
Of course, soccer has its rollercoaster moments. Injuries slowed him down in later years, and competition for the goalkeeper spot became tougher. But no matter what, Newcastle fans always appreciated his loyalty and service to the club.
The World Cup Hero (2014)
The moment that made Krul a global name came during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The Netherlands faced Costa Rica in the quarter-finals. After 120 minutes, the game was still tied 0–0, which meant penalties.
That’s when Dutch coach Louis van Gaal made a bold and shocking decision: he substituted Krul in for the starting goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen right before the shootout. The gamble worked. Tim Krul saved two penalties, helping the Netherlands win 4–3 and advance to the semifinals.
It was one of the most dramatic coaching moves in World Cup history and turned Tim Krul into a national hero overnight.
💡 Soccer Fact: Goalkeepers are the only players allowed to use their hands, but in penalty shootouts, it’s even harder for them. Statistically, about 75–80% of penalties are scored, meaning goalkeepers are expected to be beaten most of the time. That’s why Tim Krul’s two saves were such a big deal.
Life After Newcastle
Tim Krul’s journey didn’t end in Newcastle. Over his career, he played for several clubs:
Falkirk (loan, Scotland)
Carlisle United (loan, England)
Jong Ajax (loan, Netherlands)
AZ Alkmaar (loan, Netherlands)
Brighton & Hove Albion (England)
Norwich City (England)
Luton Town (England)
In total, he played 429 senior matches between 2006 and 2024. At Norwich, he became a leader and even helped the team gain promotion to the Premier League. His final club was Luton Town, where he last appeared in a 2-0 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City in February 2024.
Representing the Netherlands
For his country, Tim Krul played 15 times. He made his international debut against Brazil in 2011, which was a tough but memorable match.
His last international game came against Scotland in 2021. Even though he wasn’t always the first-choice goalkeeper for the Dutch national team, his role in the 2014 World Cup will never be forgotten. In fact, it’s one of the most replayed highlights in Dutch soccer history.
Retirement Announcement
In September 2025, Tim Krul announced his retirement on social media. Here’s the heart of his message:
“As I hang up my gloves after 20 incredible years as a professional football player, I want to take a moment to reflect on my journey. From joining Newcastle as a 17-year-old boy, to representing Holland on the international stage. I have truly lived the dream I had as a young boy.”
He thanked his clubs, coaches, teammates, family, and fans for supporting him throughout his career. He ended by saying he is excited about the next chapter in life.
Soccer News and Connections
Krul’s retirement comes at a time when many legendary goalkeepers are also nearing the end of their careers. For example:
Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich and Germany) is 39 and still playing but has battled injuries.
Hugo Lloris (France and Tottenham legend) also recently left the Premier League.
Younger stars like Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy and PSG) are now taking over the spotlight.
This shows how soccer is always moving in cycles. Legends step aside, and new players rise to take their place.
What We Can Learn From Tim Krul’s Career
Dream Big, Start Young: Tim Krul joined a Premier League club as a teenager, proving that chasing big dreams is worth it.
Be Ready for Your Moment: He wasn’t the starter in the 2014 World Cup, but when the coach called his name, he was ready. That moment changed his legacy forever.
Ups and Downs Are Normal: Injuries, transfers, and competition are all part of soccer. Tim Krull’s career shows resilience and patience.
Teamwork Matters: Even though goalkeepers don’t score goals, their role can decide games. Tim Krul’s saves inspired his teammates and his country.
Combo Corner: Fun Facts + Trivia
The average career of a professional goalkeeper lasts longer than outfield players. Goalkeepers often play into their late 30s, which explains why Krul managed to stay in the game until 2024.
Newcastle United, where Krul spent most of his career, has one of the loudest stadiums in England. St. James’ Park can host over 52,000 fans.
Krul’s penalty shootout heroics are still shown in highlight reels whenever the World Cup comes around. Some fans even call it one of the “Top 10 Goalkeeping Substitutions in History.”
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Tim Krul may not have the medals of some other famous players, but his story is proof that moments can define a career. His penalty saves in 2014, his dedication to Newcastle, and his 20-year professional journey will always be remembered by fans.
Now that he’s retired, soccer lovers around the world wish him the best for his next chapter. Maybe he’ll become a coach, a pundit, or even work with young goalkeepers. Whatever he does, Tim Krul’s story will remain an inspiring example of how hard work, bravery, and passion can make dreams come true.
⚽ Final Thought: Soccer isn’t just about winning trophies. Sometimes, it’s about making memories that last forever — and Tim Krul did exactly that.