A crowd of 26,516 filled the Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego on Sunday to bid farewell to U.S. soccer legend Alex Morgan, who capped an incredible 15-year career.
Morgan announced in a social media post on Thursday she is retiring from professional soccer after winning two FIFA Women’s World Cups (2015 and 2019) and an Olympic gold medal (2012) with the U.S. women’s national team.
The 35-year-old, pregnant with her second child, played her final match as the San Diego Wave lost 4-1 to the North Carolina Courage in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Emotional Farewell Speech
Wearing the captain’s armband, Morgan walked onto the field with her four-year-old daughter Charlie, making her 150th career appearance in the American top-tier league.
It was her 63rd appearance for the Wave, who celebrated the occasion by giving a no. 63 jersey to her in the pre-game ceremony.
Morgan played 13 minutes in Sunday’s farewell match before being subbed off to an ovation, as she broke into tears. The 35-year-old forward then walked off the pitch with her cleats in her hands.
“What a ride it has been,” Morgan said in her farewell speech post-game. “I want to thank my teammates who have constantly challenged me every day and made me better.
“I want to thank my family who have relentlessly supported me and sacrificed so much for me. I love you guys – all 95 of you who are here tonight.
“The fans… you pushed me to be my best self every day. You pushed me to be the best soccer player, to be the best mom, be the best person I could be, just showing up every day, supporting me, encouraging me, challenging me, criticizing me at times, I just thank you so much,” she added.
