Alyssa Naeher Announces Retirement from USWNT After 15 Legendary Years
It’s the end of an era for the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). On Monday, goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher announced her international retirement, calling her 15-year journey with the team “the greatest honor.” The 36-year-old will officially hang up her international gloves after two upcoming friendlies: one against England on November 30 and another against the Netherlands on December 3. These matches will mark the conclusion of an illustrious 11-year career with the senior USWNT squad.
While Naeher is stepping away from the international stage, fans of the Chicago Red Stars can breathe a sigh of relief—she’ll continue her club career with the team she’s represented since 2016.
“Having the opportunity to be a part of the USWNT for the past 15 years has been the greatest honor,” Naeher said in her heartfelt announcement. “When I began this journey, I never could have imagined where it would take me, and now I find myself so grateful for all the incredible teammates that I have shared the field with; teammates that have turned into lifelong friends.”
She didn’t forget to thank those who’ve been in her corner throughout her career. “To all my teammates, coaches, and staff, thank you all for pushing me, supporting me, and making me a better person/player every single day. A special thanks goes to my family. You have traveled all over the world and were in my corner every step of the way, and I love you all.”
Filling Big Shoes and Creating Her Own Legacy
When Naeher took over as the starting goalkeeper for the USWNT, she had the unenviable task of replacing the legendary Hope Solo. But the Bridgeport, Connecticut native didn’t just fill those shoes—she made her own mark on the game. Naeher was part of two World Cup-winning squads in 2015 and 2019 and added an Olympic gold medal to her resume at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
One of her most iconic moments came during the 2019 World Cup semifinal against England. With the United States clinging to a 2-1 lead, Naeher made a crucial penalty save against Steph Houghton, a play that helped secure the team’s spot in the final and ultimately their fourth World Cup title. She remains the only goalkeeper in women’s soccer history to record a shutout in both a World Cup final and an Olympic gold medal game.
Reflecting on her time with the team, Naeher 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. I know one chapter is ending, but I am so excited to continue to see the growth of this team going forward and what more they can accomplish.”
By the Numbers: A Career to Remember
Naeher’s international debut came on December 18, 2014, in a 7-0 win over Argentina in Brazil. Since then, she’s built an impressive resume:
- Caps: 113 (110 starts)
- Wins: 88
- Shutouts: 68
- Goals Against Average: 0.50
These numbers place her behind only Hope Solo and Briana Scurry in USWNT history. At the club level, Naeher has had stints with the Boston Breakers (in both the now-defunct WPS and the NWSL) and German side Turbine Potsdam. Her second spell with the Breakers was particularly memorable, as she was named NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year in 2014. Before turning pro, she was a two-time All-American at Penn State University.
What’s Next for the USWNT?
As Naeher steps away, the USWNT faces the challenge of finding their next No. 1 goalkeeper. Casey Murphy and Jane Campbell are the presumptive frontrunners, but neither is included in the squad for the upcoming friendlies. Instead, Utah Royals keeper Mandy Haught and the uncapped Phallon Tullis-Joyce of Manchester United have been called up by new USWNT head coach Emma Hayes.
As the team looks to the future, one thing is certain: Alyssa Naeher’s contributions to the USWNT will not be forgotten. Her leadership, clutch performances, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the program. While her international career may be ending, her legacy will inspire the next generation of players to reach for greatness.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
