United States’ Julie Ertz announces retirement from soccer

United States two-time World Cup winner and Angel City FC star Julie Ertz formally announced her retirement from worldwide and membership play on Thursday.

“With immense emotion and processing, I’ve decided it is time to hang up the boots,” Ertz mentioned in her social media submit. “I’ve been blessed to meet and train with some of the best and most inspirational women I’ve ever been around, and I’ve experienced different cultures while traveling the world to compete at the highest level.

“I gave every part I needed to the game that I like. With that I can stroll away with no regrets as a result of whereas I gave soccer each ounce of myself, soccer gave me much more, and for that I’ll all the time be grateful.”

Ertz was part of the USWNT’s defense at the 2023 Women’s World Cup tournament. After the USWNT fell to Sweden in the round of 16 on penalties, Ertz indicated the match would be her last for the United States.

She finishes her international career with 122 appearances for the U.S., scoring 20 goals. Ertz was part of two World Cup-winning sides in 2015 and 2019.

Ertz made a sensational comeback to professional soccer earlier this year after giving birth to her son, Madden, last August. She first suited up for the U.S. in a pair of friendlies against Ireland back in April, and shortly thereafter signed with NWSL side Angel City in April 2023 for the club’s second season. She then made enough progress to be named to the U.S. World Cup roster in June.

“Julie has without end left a constructive mark on Angel City, and we’re actually honored to name her one among our first alums,” ACFC co-founder and president Julie Uhrman said. “Time is not the one measurement of affect; what issues is one’s dedication to supporting their staff and group throughout their tenure.”

Ertz, 31, debuted for the USWNT in 2013, and her USWNT career spanned 10 years. In her 122 caps, the USWNT had a record of 100-17-5. Ertz played and started in 17 World Cup matches, in which the USWNT amassed 13 wins and four draws while keeping 11 clean sheets.

“As I’ve gotten older and grow to be a mother, it is clear the sacrifices of time away from my household not appear doable with so many elements at play,” Ertz said. “These ladies gave me a present I might by no means repay and l obtained to dwell out a dream I want for everybody: falling in love with a sport you have got performed your entire life and attending to share it along with your son.

“Representing this country on the National Team has been the greatest honor. To play for the USWNT means you chase greatness every day while you wear the crest. I hope that I was able to leave an impact that reflects that.”