In a career spanning 16 years, Becky Sauerbrunn, renowned for her exceptional contributions to women’s soccer, has decided to retire. Having played a pivotal role for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), she leaves behind a legacy of achievements and leadership on and off the field.
Becky Sauerbrunn, a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, announced her retirement from professional soccer. At 39, she has been a cornerstone of the USWNT during a period that marked significant achievements for the team. Her career in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) was equally impressive, winning three league titles, two with FC Kansas City and one with the Portland Thorns.
Reflecting on her career, Sauerbrunn shared the emotions that defined her journey through a heartfelt message on Instagram. “Nothing will compare to the last sixteen years. How could it?” she mentioned, encapsulating her experiences in the sport. “The challenge of chasing victory. The bravery to fail. The willingness to suffer. The joy and relief when you achieve it. The drive to go again.” She expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest levels, an honor she cherished throughout her 219 appearances, making her the 10th most-capped player in USWNT history.
Sauerbrunn’s impact went beyond the field. As a captain between 2021 and 2023, and earlier as a co-captain alongside Carli Lloyd, she led her team with determination and integrity. Her leadership was instrumental in securing the Collective Bargaining Agreement in 2022, ensuring equal pay for USWNT players compared to their male counterparts.
Her accolades include winning the league’s defender of the year award in its first three seasons and again in 2019, highlighting her prowess in defense. She played every minute of the 2015 World Cup in Canada and again featured prominently in the 2019 World Cup in France, where the USWNT defended their title. Additionally, she contributed to the team’s gold medal win at the 2012 London Olympics and was part of the bronze-winning squad at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
In her farewell statements, Sauerbrunn took the opportunity to acknowledge those who supported her journey, including coaches, fans, the administrative staff, and her family and teammates. “To the coaches who believed in me. To the fans who supported us. To the admin and support staff who kept me moving. To my friends and family who stood by me. To my partner for all the practice reps and knowing not to critique them. And to all my teammates who bought in and fought both for each other and for an idea bigger than ourselves. Thank you,” she said.
Sauerbrunn’s retirement follows a series of notable departures from the USWNT, including Alex Morgan, Kelley O’Hara, and Alyssa Naeher, marking the end of a remarkable era for the team.
Becky Sauerbrunn’s retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary chapter in women’s soccer. Her dedication, leadership, and athletic prowess have left an indelible mark on the sport. As she steps away from the game, her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for equality will continue to inspire future generations.
