Alyssa Naeher Reflects on Legacy as She Retires from USWNT

The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist will play her final matches for the U.S. team during upcoming European friendlies.

Alyssa Naeher, the USWNT's starting goalkeeper since 2017, announced her retirement from international soccer at age 36, citing fulfillment and readiness for a new chapter.
Naeher's career highlights include two World Cup championships, an Olympic gold medal, and a defining penalty save against England in the 2019 World Cup semifinals.
She will continue to play for the NWSL's Chicago Red Stars in 2025 but decided not to pursue another World Cup or Olympic cycle, which would see her competing at age 39 and 40, respectively.
The USWNT's upcoming matches against England and the Netherlands will serve as Naeher's farewell, while also providing opportunities for younger goalkeepers to gain experience under head coach Emma Hayes.
Naeher emphasized her pride in contributing to the team's on-field success and its advocacy off the field, while reflecting on her journey from youth soccer to becoming a role model for future generations of goalkeepers.