USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher announces retirement from international soccer
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Alyssa Naeher, the longtime goalkeeper for the US Women’s National Team (USWNT), has announced her retirement from international soccer. After an illustrious 11-year career with the national team, Naeher will make her final appearances during upcoming international friendlies against England and the Netherlands before officially stepping away from the squad.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Naeher described her journey with the USWNT as “the greatest honor” of her life. Reflecting on her career, she expressed deep gratitude for the teammates, coaches, and family members who supported her along the way. “When I began this journey, I never could have imagined where it would take me,” Naeher wrote. “I am so grateful for all of the incredible teammates that I have shared the field with; teammates that have turned into lifelong friends.”
The goalkeeper also thanked her family, who supported her throughout her career. “Thank you to my family; you have traveled all over the world and were in my corner every step of the way,” she added.
Her announcement was met with tributes from teammates and colleagues. Defender Sofia Huerta shared a message on Instagram, saying, “Congrats on an amazing career! You should be so proud.” USWNT veteran Crystal Dunn also expressed admiration, writing, “I freaking love you! You are the best of the best! Human being and player!”
Naeher’s career with the USWNT has been nothing short of exceptional. With 113 appearances for the national team, she ranks third on the all-time list for USWNT goalkeepers, behind Hope Solo and Briana Scurry. She was a key figure in the USWNT’s 2015 Women’s World Cup victory, serving as Hope Solo’s backup. Naeher’s true moment in the spotlight came four years later at the 2019 Women’s World Cup, when she played every minute of the tournament, conceding just three goals, and was pivotal in the team’s title defense.
In addition to her World Cup success, Naeher has earned Olympic glory, starting as goalkeeper during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where the US won gold. In a memorable moment during the final, Naeher made a crucial save in injury time, denying Brazil’s Adriana a chance to equalize and preserving the USWNT’s 1-0 victory. Naeher’s legacy also includes a bronze medal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, despite suffering an injury in the semifinal against Canada.
Naeher’s historic career included a standout performance in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where she made history as the first player to both score and save a penalty in a World Cup. Unfortunately, the USWNT’s tournament ended in disappointment, as they were eliminated in a shootout by Sweden in the round of 16. In a controversial moment, Naeher initially appeared to have saved Lina Hurtig’s penalty, only for a VAR review to rule that the ball had crossed the line, resulting in a heartbreaking elimination.
Despite that setback, Naeher’s career has been marked by resilience and success, including heroic performances in penalty shootouts. She saved three penalties and scored one of her own in the semifinal of the 2023 W Gold Cup against Canada, repeating this feat during the 2024 SheBelieves Cup final against the same opponent.
Reflecting on her career, Naeher emphasized the importance of both the triumphs and the challenges she faced along the way. “Every tear shed in the challenging times and disappointments made every smile and celebration in the moments of success that much more joyful,” she said. “This has been a special team to be a part of, and I am beyond proud of what we have achieved both on and off the field. The memories I have made over the years will last me a lifetime.”
Though Naeher is retiring from international duty, she will continue to play for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she has already set the league’s record for most appearances by a goalkeeper. Naeher’s transition to this new chapter in her career will allow her to focus on her club career while continuing to inspire the next generation of goalkeepers in the NWSL.
As she closes this chapter, Naeher is excited to watch the continued growth of the USWNT. “While this chapter for me is ending, I am so excited to continue to see the growth of this team going forward and what more they can accomplish!” she said, leaving behind a lasting legacy of excellence and dedication to the sport.
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