Los Ángeles, California – Christen Press, the celebrated Olympic and two-time World Cup champion, has announced her retirement from professional soccer following the conclusion of the 2025 National Women’s Soccer League season. The announcement, made on Wednesday, marks the end of a remarkable 14-year career highlighted by success with multiple clubs and the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT).
Press, currently a member of Angel City FC since 2021, will be honored by the club in a special event at BMO Field on Sunday. Throughout her tenure, she has amassed over 64 international goals, ranking ninth in USWNT history. She played a pivotal role in securing victories at the 2015 and 2019 World Cup tournaments. Additionally, Press contributed to a bronze medal victory for the USWNT at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Prior to Angel City FC, Press spent time with the Chicago Red Stars and Utah Royals, further solidifying her legacy in the NWSL. She also had a brief stint with Manchester City.
In a statement released Wednesday, Press expressed the profound impact of the sport on her life. “It’s hard to find the words to say goodbye to a sport that has defined my life for over three decades. Football has given me everything, and I will miss being on the pitch so very much. Thank you to my family, friends, teammates, coaches, and community for this beautiful ride,” she stated.
The announcement was further influenced by the concurrent retirement of her wife and former teammate, Tobin Heath. “She would absolutely hate me saying this, but [it influenced me] a lot,” Press admitted to ESPN. “I think it is time for my family to move on to our next chapter. We’re going to be part of this game forever, but it’s time for it to look different for us.”
Press described a complex mix of emotions as she prepares to step away from the game. “I feel a mix of everything. There’s yes, there’s relief, there’s joy, there’s excitement, there’s fear, there’s so much grief. I have so much grief, a piece of me, a piece of me, I’m losing her,” she shared.
Press indicated her decision was also motivated by a desire to proactively manage her health. “I’m retiring from professional soccer, and I’ve decided that this is my last season and my last few games,” she stated. “I feel a mix of everything. There’s yes, there’s relief, there’s joy, there’s excitement, there’s fear, there’s so much grief. I have so much grief, a piece of me, a piece of me, I’m losing her.”
The news is particularly poignant given Press and Heath’s previously undisclosed eight-year relationship, which they revealed last year to widespread acclaim.
This article originally appeared on Pride: Lesbian soccer legend Christen Press makes surprising career announcement.
Fuente: https://www.pride.com/culture/sports/christen-press-retirement-announcement