San Diego, CA – September 5, 2024 – Alex Morgan, one of the most iconic figures in women’s soccer, has announced her retirement from professional soccer, marking the end of a legendary career. At 35 years old, Morgan leaves the sport as one of the most decorated athletes in U.S. soccer history, with two FIFA Women’s World Cup titles, an Olympic gold medal, and a legacy that extends far beyond the field.
Morgan revealed her decision to retire via a heartfelt social media post on September 5, 2024, where she also announced she is expecting her second child. Her final match will be on September 8, 2024, when her NWSL team, San Diego Wave, takes on the North Carolina Courage.
Career Highlights
1. Rise to Stardom:
Alex Morgan’s rise to fame began when she was drafted first overall by the Western New York Flash in the 2011 Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) draft. Her pace, technique, and goal-scoring instincts quickly made her one of the league’s standout players. She made her debut for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) in 2010, signaling the start of an illustrious international career.
2. 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup:
Morgan made her mark on the global stage during the 2011 World Cup. Though the U.S. finished as runners-up, Morgan scored a key goal in the final against Japan, becoming the youngest American to score in a World Cup final at the age of 22.
3. Olympic Gold in 2012:
In the 2012 London Olympics, Morgan played a crucial role in the U.S. team’s victory, including her memorable stoppage-time header in the semifinal against Canada, which sent the U.S. to the gold medal match. The U.S. later defeated Japan to clinch the title.
4. 2015 and 2019 World Cup Triumphs:
Morgan solidified her place as a soccer legend with two World Cup victories. In 2015, she was instrumental in leading the U.S. to their third World Cup title. Four years later, Morgan co-captained the team to a second consecutive World Cup in 2019, where her six-goal tally tied her for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.
5. NWSL Star and Advocate for Gender Equality:
Apart from her international success, Morgan was a standout in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), playing for several clubs, including the Portland Thorns, Orlando Pride, and most recently, San Diego Wave. Off the field, Morgan became a prominent advocate for gender equality in sports, spearheading the fight for equal pay for women soccer players and using her platform to push for greater investment in women’s sports.
The Announcement: A Bittersweet Farewell
In her retirement announcement, Morgan reflected on the 30 years she dedicated to soccer, stating:
“Soccer has been a part of me for 30 years. It was one of the first things that I ever loved. And I gave everything to this sport. What I got in return was more than I could have ever dreamed of.”
Morgan’s impact extends beyond the trophies and accolades. Her contributions to growing women’s soccer, both as a player and as an advocate for gender equality, have changed the sport’s landscape. She expressed pride in helping inspire future generations of female athletes, including her own daughter, who recently told her she wants to be a soccer player someday.
Legacy and Future
With 123 goals for the USWNT, Morgan retires as the fifth-highest scorer in the team’s history. Her leadership, fierce competitiveness, and remarkable talent will be remembered as key factors in the dominance of U.S. women’s soccer during the past decade. As she moves into the next chapter of her life, Morgan’s influence will undoubtedly continue, whether in sports advocacy or new ventures off the field.
Morgan’s final appearance this Sunday will be an emotional end to an era, as fans around the world celebrate the extraordinary career of one of soccer’s all-time greats.
FAQ’s
1. When did Alex Morgan announce her retirement?
Alex Morgan announced her retirement from professional soccer on September 5, 2024, via a heartfelt social media post.
2. Why did Alex Morgan retire?
Morgan mentioned in her retirement announcement that after 30 years in soccer, she felt it was time to step away. She is also expecting her second child, which contributed to her decision
3. What are Alex Morgan’s most notable achievements?
- FIFA World Cup Champion: 2015, 2019
- Olympic Gold Medalist: 2012
- NWSL Star: Played for Portland Thorns, Orlando Pride, and San Diego Wave
- Goals for USWNT: 123, making her the fifth-highest scorer in U.S. women’s soccer history(
4. What was Alex Morgan’s role in promoting gender equality?
Morgan has been an outspoken advocate for equal pay in sports, fighting alongside her U.S. Women’s National Team teammates for gender equality in soccer. Her activism helped pave the way for a landmark equal pay agreement in 2022.
5. When is Alex Morgan’s final match?
Morgan’s final match will be on September 8, 2024, when her San Diego Wave team plays against the North Carolina Courage in the NWSL
6. How many goals did Alex Morgan score for the USWNT?
Alex Morgan scored 123 goals for the U.S. Women’s National Team, placing her fifth on the all-time USWNT goal-scoring list.
7. What impact did Alex Morgan have on women’s soccer?
Morgan played a crucial role in elevating the visibility of women’s soccer globally. Her influence went beyond her playing career, as she pushed for better opportunities, equal pay, and greater respect for women athletes.
8. What’s next for Alex Morgan after retirement?
While Morgan hasn’t revealed specific plans, she is expected to remain involved in advocacy for women’s sports and gender equality, in addition to focusing on her family.
