Alex Morgan announces retirement from professional football

On Sunday, the seasoned co-captain of the USWNT and fifth-highest goalscorer of all time will play her last match in the sport. The USWNT is entering a new chapter. Morgan, who has scored 123 goals and earned 223 caps for her country, said on Thursday morning that Sunday will be her last football match.

In addition to confirming her decision to end her career in a video that was uploaded to the internet on Thursday, Alex Morgan, 35, said that she is expecting her second child. In a video posted on her social media account earlier today, Morgan said, “I'm going to get to the point quickly. I'm retiring, and I'm very clear and happy about this decision. It's been a long time coming, and it wasn't easy.” 

She added, “At the start of 2024, I felt in my heart that this would be my last season playing soccer.Soccer has been a part of me for 30 years. It was one of the first things I ever loved. I gave everything to this sport, and what I got in return was more than I could have ever dreamed of.

"To me, success means never giving up" : Alex Morgan

The two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup winner said, “To me, success means never giving up and always giving your best. And that's what I did every single day on the field. I also gave my all in pushing for more investment in women's sports because we deserve it. Beyond soccer, I put my heart into my businesses and being a mom to my daughter Charlie.”

While shedding a small tear from her eye, Morgan said, “Charlie came up to me the other day and said she wants to be a soccer player when she grows up. Hearing that made me really proud. It's not because I want her to be a soccer player, but because now even a four-year-old can see that path. We're changing lives, and our impact on the next generation is huge. I'm proud of my role in pushing the game forward and leaving it in such a good place.”

Morgan confirmed that she is pregnant as well as she added, “This isn't the retirement video I expected to make, though, because Charlie is going to be a big sister. I am pregnant, and even though it was unexpected, we are so happy. Family means everything to me. I wouldn't be here without my husband and family supporting and encouraging me for the last 15 years as a professional athlete. I'm also grateful that I'll get one last game to play. This Sunday, September 8th, will be that game.”