Alex Morgan Bids Emotional Farewell to Football as She Retires
SAN DIEGO: US soccer legend Alex Morgan played the final match of her illustrious career on Sunday, marking an emotional farewell to the sport before heading into retirement. The 35-year-old star announced her decision to retire on Thursday, sharing that she is expecting her second child.
Morgan’s final appearance came in the San Diego Wave’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) match against North Carolina Courage, where she played the first 13 minutes. The game ended in a 4-1 loss for the Wave, but the occasion was all about celebrating Morgan’s incredible journey.
Reflecting on her career, Morgan expressed gratitude to her teammates and fans. “What a ride it has been,” she told the cheering crowd after the match. “I want to thank my teammates who have constantly challenged me and made me better. This last moment on the field with you is one I will cherish forever. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
Morgan, visibly emotional, also thanked her family for their support throughout her career and gave a special shoutout to her fans. “You pushed me to be my best self every day—on the field, as a mom, and as a person. I just want to thank you all for supporting and encouraging me.”
Fans at Snapdragon Stadium held signs and wore shirts in tribute to Morgan, with messages like “Thank You Alex” and “SAND13GOAT,” referencing her club and iconic jersey number. Morgan led her team onto the field and posed for photos before the game began, taking center stage one last time.
The game itself saw Morgan’s 10th-minute penalty saved, just before San Diego equalized. In the 13th minute—representing her jersey number—Morgan was substituted, exiting to a standing ovation and chants of “Alex Morgan” from the crowd. She waved and blew kisses to fans as she left the field, hugging her teammates in a heartwarming moment.
Throughout her career, Morgan was one of the most recognized and celebrated players in women’s football. She played a key role in the US Women’s National Team’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019. Morgan’s 14-year international career included 123 goals, placing her fifth on the all-time US women’s list, along with 53 assists.
Her final appearance for the US national team came in June against South Korea, with her last international goal scored in February against Argentina during the Women’s Gold Cup. Over the course of her career, Morgan competed in 22 World Cup matches, scoring nine goals, and six goals in 16 Olympic matches.
In club football, Morgan achieved success with multiple teams, including winning a league title with Portland Thorns in 2013 and playing with Olympique Lyonnais, where she won the French league, French Cup, and UEFA Champions League in 2017. She also had a brief stint with Tottenham Hotspur in 2020.
As Alex Morgan moves into the next chapter of her life, her legacy as one of the greatest soccer players of all time will continue to inspire future generations.
