Key Takeaways

  • Alex Morgan announces retirement from professional soccer at age 35.
  • Two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist.
  • Scored 123 goals in 224 appearances for USWNT (5th all-time).
  • Final match on September 8 for San Diego Wave FC.
  • Pregnant with second child.

Alex Morgan Calls Time on Illustrious Soccer Career

U.S. Women’s National Team icon Alex Morgan has officially announced her retirement from professional soccer, bringing an end to a remarkable 15-year career at the highest level. The 35-year-old forward revealed her decision in an emotional video posted on social media on September 5, 2024.

A Decorated Career

Morgan retires as one of the most accomplished players in U.S. soccer history. Her impressive resume includes:

2 FIFA Women’s World Cup titles (2015, 2019)

Olympic gold medal (2012)

123 goals in 224 appearances for USWNT (5th all-time)

• 53 assists (9th all-time)

• 4-time CONCACAF Female Player of the Year

At the club level, Morgan was a pioneer in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), playing every season since its inception in 2013. She also had stints with European powerhouses Lyon and Tottenham Hotspur.

Final Bow and New Chapter

Morgan’s last professional match will be on September 8, when her NWSL club San Diego Wave FC hosts the North Carolina Courage. In her retirement announcement, she also shared the joyous news that she is expecting her second child.

https://twitter.com/alexmorgan13/status/1831709310436700386

“I have so much clarity about this decision, and I am so happy to be able to finally tell you,” Morgan said. “It has been a long time coming, and this decision wasn’t easy, but at the beginning of 2024 I felt in my heart and soul that this was the last season that I would play soccer.”

Impact Beyond the Pitch

Throughout her career, Morgan transcended the sport to become a cultural icon and advocate for women’s equality. Her influence extended far beyond goal-scoring, as she used her platform to push for increased investment and recognition in women’s sports.

“I grew up on this team, it was so much more than soccer,” Morgan reflected. “It was the friendships and the unwavering respect and support among each other, the relentless push for global investment in women’s sports, and the pivotal moments of success both on and off the field.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Morgan’s impact on U.S. soccer is undeniable. Some notable achievements include:

• Scored in 86 different international matches

• USWNT record: 177 wins, 15 losses, 32 draws when she played

• 29 multi-goal games (3rd in USWNT history)

• Scored against 32 different countries

Her clutch performances in major tournaments cemented her status as a big-game player. Morgan scored crucial goals in the 2011 and 2019 World Cup semifinals, as well as the dramatic 123rd-minute winner against Canada in the 2012 Olympic semifinal.

Fan Reactions

The announcement of Morgan’s retirement sparked an outpouring of support and appreciation from fans across social media platforms. Many expressed their gratitude for her contributions to the sport and shared personal memories of watching her play.

One fan tweeted: “Alex Morgan has been an inspiration to so many young girls. Her impact on women’s soccer is immeasurable. Thank you for everything, Alex!”

Another supporter wrote: “I’ll never forget that goal against Canada in the 2012 Olympics. Alex Morgan, you’re a legend!”

Several fans also congratulated Morgan on her pregnancy and wished her well in her future endeavors. The overwhelming sentiment was one of respect for her decision and excitement for her next chapter.

“Sad to see you go, but what an incredible career! Enjoy retirement and congrats on baby #2!” read one supportive message.

The reaction from the soccer community highlights Morgan’s enduring popularity and the significant mark she has left on the sport and its fans.

Looking Ahead

While hanging up her boots, Morgan expressed excitement for the future of women’s soccer in the United States. “I feel immense pride in where this team is headed, and I will forever be a fan of the USWNT,” she said.

Morgan’s retirement marks the end of an era for U.S. soccer, but her legacy as a prolific goalscorer, tireless advocate, and inspirational figure will continue to influence the sport for years to come.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *