By Zac Cornell
After playing for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team for the last 17 years, soccer star Carli Lloyd announced that she will retire at the end of this season. The two time World Cup Champion is one of the most famous and dominant players in the sport, having played for the U.S. over 300 times, a milestone only achieved by three other players internationally. She is the fourth highest scorer in U.S. history with 128 career goals and is the highest scoring midfielder in U.S. history. She is one of two Americans to win the FIFA Women’s Player of the Year award twice (in 2015 and 2016).
In her announcement, Lloyd thanked everyone who helped her throughout her outstanding career and had a heartfelt message for the fans.
“I would like to thank U.S. Soccer for helping to provide the opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime. I am forever grateful to have represented the crest and to be able to play for my country for the last 17 years,” Lloyd said in a statement.
“I will continue to support and cheer this team on and continue to find ways to help grow the game and inspire the next generation. To end my career knowing my family was able to be by my side and share this last chapter with me could not have been any more special,” she added.
Lloyd scored the game-winning goal against Australia in the 2021 Olympics, which landed the Bronze medal for the U.S. She also scored the game-winning goals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games. Another legendary goal was her kick from midfield at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final match that completed a hat trick. She was named the best player at that tournament, receiving the 2015 Golden Ball.
“Through all the goals, the trophies, the medals and the championships won, what I am most proud of is that I’ve been able to stay unapologetically me. My journey has been hard, but I can honestly say I’ve stayed true to myself, to my teammates, my coaches, the media and the fans throughout my entire career and that is what I am most proud of,” she added. “Everyone sees the moments of glory, but I have cherished the work behind the scenes and the adversity that I’ve had to overcome to get to those glorious moments.”
In addition to completing the season with the Gotham F.C. team, Lloyd said she will also compete with the U.S team in four additional exhibition matches before officially retiring from soccer.
Inside Sports Journal 