2024, SEPTEMBER 05 – Alex Morgan, a generational soccer star and the face of American women’s soccer for over a decade, has announced her retirement, bringing an end to a legendary career that spanned 15 years at the top of the game. Morgan, 35, revealed the news on social media, sharing that her final professional match will be on Sunday when her National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, the San Diego Wave FC, hosts the North Carolina Courage.
In her emotional announcement, Morgan reflected on her decision: “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 I would play soccer.”
Morgan’s contribution to the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) helped define its second golden era, as she led the team to back-to-back FIFA Women’s World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, as well as an Olympic gold medal in 2012. Her individual accolades are just as remarkable. Twice named U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year and a three-time finalist for FIFA Best Player of the Year, Morgan also made the FIFPro World XI six times. Her honours roll includes some of the game’s most coveted titles: a league championship in both the U.S. and France, as well as the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Olympique Lyonnais Féminin in 2017.
Morgan made her national team debut in 2009 as a 20-year-old standout from the University of California, Berkeley, earning the nickname “Baby Horse” for her speed and power. Over her career, she amassed 123 international goals, placing her fifth on the U.S. all-time scoring list. Her influence extended beyond the national stage, as she became a key player at club level, starring for teams like the Portland Thorns FC, Orlando Pride, and San Diego Wave FC. She retires with the fourth-most career goals in NWSL history.
In her farewell video, Morgan shared a touching story about her 4-year-old daughter, who recently expressed a desire to become a soccer player. “It made me immensely proud — not because I wish for her to become a soccer player when she grows up — but because a pathway exists that even a four-year-old can see now,” Morgan said, reflecting on her role in shaping the future of women’s soccer.
In addition to announcing her retirement, Morgan revealed she is expecting her second child. While she steps away from the game, she expressed excitement about the future of the U.S. Women’s National Team, which is now led by stars like Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman, and Sophia Smith. “I feel immense pride in where this team is headed, and I will forever be a fan of the USWNT,” Morgan said.
Despite her legendary career, Morgan was left off the roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics. U.S. head coach Emma Hayes acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, saying, “It was a tough decision, especially considering Alex’s history and record with this team. But I felt that I wanted to go in another direction.”
Thank you🫶 pic.twitter.com/8BkofVOh3s
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) September 5, 2024
Morgan’s legacy is one of unparalleled success. Her career was filled with accolades, both individual and team, and her impact on the sport extends far beyond the titles she won. A true icon of the game, Morgan leaves behind a lasting legacy, having helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes.
