US Female Player of the Year award, Julie Ertz, a two-time recipient of the award at the age of 31, announced her retirement from professional soccer on Thursday, as confirmed by the federation.
This decision comes after the disappointing performance of the American women’s team in the Women’s World Cup held in New Zealand and Australia.
Throughout her international career, Ertz played both as a defender and in midfield, playing a crucial role in the United States’ triumphant World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019.
Following an 18-month hiatus from the sport due to giving birth to her son Madden, she made her return to the field in Australia and New Zealand.
Regrettably, the four-time champions experienced an untimely elimination in the tournament, being knocked out in the round of 16.
“Over the past couple of months, my heart has been filled with gratitude as I’ve thought about the amazing experiences soccer has given me,” Ertz said in a statement.
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“I can walk away with no regrets because while I gave soccer every ounce of myself, soccer gave me even more, and for that I’ll always be thankful.”
Ertz, who joined Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) this year, overcame a serious knee injury to participate in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics and helped the United States earn the bronze medal.