Overview

• She last played for OL Reign in August 2022 and spent three years in rehab after multiple knee surgeries failed to restore full function.
• Over her 13-year career with the USWNT and club teams she won two World Cups (2015, 2019), two Olympic golds (2008, 2012), two NWSL titles with Portland Thorns FC, and three NCAA championships with UNC.
• On her podcast with partner Christen Press she described her initial disbelief at the permanent diagnosis and the slow process of coming to terms with the end of her playing days.
• Former teammates including Megan Rapinoe joined Press in sharing heartfelt tributes to Heath’s leadership and impact on and off the field.
• Heath’s choice to control her retirement narrative through her own media platform underscores a growing trend of athletes managing their personal stories.