Alex Morgan, the legendary forward for the U.S. Women's National Team and two-time World Cup champion, officially retired from professional soccer today. The announcement came after her final match with the San Diego Wave against the North Carolina Courage in the NWSL, where she was honored by a heartfelt tribute from fans and teammates.

In a recent social media post, Morgan shared the difficult decision to retire, revealing, "At the beginning of 2024, I felt in my heart and soul that this would be my last season playing soccer."

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Morgan, who also revealed that she is expecting her second child, cited her 35 years and family considerations as reasons for her retirement. During her final game, she started for the San Diego Wave and was substituted in the 13th minute-the same number she wore during many of her career highlights. She embraced her teammates, removed her cleats, and walked off the field in socks, marking the end of an illustrious career.

 

Over 14 years at the highest level, Morgan has played for notable U.S. clubs including the Portland Thorns, Orlando Pride, and San Diego Wave. Her European stints at Olympique Lyonnais and Tottenham were also remarkable. Among her club achievements are the UEFA Women's Champions League, French league title, and Coupe de France from the 2016-2017 season.

Morgan made her debut for the U.S. Women's National Team in 2010, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the squad. She played a key role in the 2011 World Cup, where the U.S. team fell to Japan in the final. She redeemed herself with an Olympic gold medal in London 2012, solidifying her place in women's soccer history.

At 35, Alex Morgan retires as a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, with an impressive tally of 123 goals in 224 international matches. Her legacy in women's soccer is cemented as one of the sport's all-time greats.