We are nearing the end of an era.

Usain Bolt, one of the most sensational sportsmen ever to grace the earth, announced earlier this year that the World Championships in London will be his last competition in Athletics.

And Bolt, a man who has broken record after record in a truly incredible career, has officially bowed out from individual athletics following the 100m final on Saturday night.

Unfortunately for the Jamaican great, he would eventually come third behind two Americans, with Justin Gatlin taking gold and Christian Coleman pipping Bolt to second.

It was therefore not the fairy-tale ending that Bolt was looking for, but he has still earned high praise across the world for his achievements in what has been an extraordinary career.

The tributes to the legendary sprinter have been pouring in across social media from a number of famous sportsmen, including David Beckham.

And the next star to have had their say has been Gianluigi Buffon, the legendary Italy and Juventus goalkeeper. 

Buffon is also entering the final stages in what has been a highly successful career; the Italian has confirmed this coming season will be his last as he plans to retire after the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

A nice touch from Buffon 

In an emotional Instagram message dedicated to Bolt, Buffon posted: 

The world has one last chance to watch Bolt in action, as he will race as part of the Jamaican team in the 4x100m.

The 30-year-old will no doubt be hoping that he can end his athletics career on a high, where he is aiming to win his 15th World Championship medal.

Regardless of what happens in the 4x100m final, the athletics world will say goodbye to a man who has captured the hearts of sports fans across the globe.

Dominant on the track and also an extremely likeable character, Bolt has created a legacy for himself that will last forever.

Where does Bolt rank among the greatest sportsmen of all time? Have your say in the comments.