Alyssa Naeher, regarded as one of the greatest players to ever represent the United States in women’s soccer, is preparing to bid farewell to the international stage. The veteran goalkeeper is set to retire following the upcoming matches, marking the end of an illustrious career that has left a lasting impact on the sport.
Naeher, a legendary figure in U.S. Women’s National Team history, announced on Monday that she will retire from international soccer. The 36-year-old goalkeeper will bid farewell to the USWNT in upcoming matches against England and the Netherlands, bringing an amazing 11-year journey to a close.
Naeher’s legacy is unparalleled, as she is the only goalkeeper in U.S. history to achieve shutouts in both a FIFA Women’s World Cup final and an Olympic gold medal match. Revered as one of the finest shot-stoppers in the history of women’s soccer, her departure marks the end of an extraordinary chapter for the national team.
Alyssa Naeher concludes her incredible international career with the USWNT, leaving behind a record of 88 wins, 6 losses, and 14 draws, along with an impressive 0.50 goals-against average. She retires as third all-time among U.S. goalkeepers in caps (113), starts (110), wins (88), and shutouts (68), surpassed only by legends Briana Scurry and Hope Solo.
Naeher’s legacy is forever etched in history, particularly for her unforgettable performance during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. In the semifinals, she delivered one of the most iconic saves in USWNT history, denying Steph Houghton’s penalty in the 83rd minute to secure a 2-1 victory over England. Her heroics propelled the team to a 2-0 triumph over the Netherlands in the final, cementing her status as a pivotal figure in the team’s success.
As a two-time World Cup champion and three-time Olympian, Naeher also contributed to the team’s fifth Olympic gold medal during the Paris Games. While stepping away from the international stage, she intends to continue her club career, committing to the Chicago Red Stars for the 2025 NWSL season.
“Being a part of the USWNT for the past 15 years has truly been the greatest honor,” Alyssa Naeher shared in a heartfelt statement. “When I started this journey, I could never have imagined the incredible places it would take me. I am deeply grateful for the amazing teammates I’ve had the privilege to play alongside—teammates who have become lifelong friends. To every teammate, coach, and staff member, thank you for challenging me, supporting me, and helping me grow into a better person and player every single day.
“A special thank you to my family—you’ve traveled the world with me and stood by my side every step of the way. I love you all so much. This team has been more than just a group of players; it’s been a family, and I couldn’t be prouder of everything we’ve accomplished together on and off the field. The memories we’ve created will stay with me for a lifetime.
“Although this chapter of my life is coming to an end, I’m excited to watch this team continue to grow and achieve even greater things in the future.”
The U.S. will face England on November 30, followed by a match against the Netherlands on December 3. These two fixtures will mark the conclusion of Alyssa Naeher’s illustrious USWNT career
