Sat Nov 30 17:40:00 UTC 2024: **USWNT Goalkeeping Legend Alyssa Naeher Announces Retirement**
CHICAGO (Nov. 25, 2024) – Alyssa Naeher, a titan of US Women’s National Team (USWNT) soccer, has announced her retirement from international play. The 36-year-old goalkeeper, currently in London with the team for upcoming matches against England and the Netherlands, concludes an illustrious 11-year career that includes two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal.
Naeher is the only goalkeeper in women’s soccer history to achieve shutouts in both a World Cup Final and an Olympic gold medal game. Her contributions to the USWNT are undeniable, with 88 wins, 6 losses, 14 draws, and a remarkable 0.50 goals against average across 113 appearances. This places her third all-time in caps, starts, wins, and shutouts for the USWNT, behind only Hope Solo and Briana Scurry. Her shutout percentage surpasses even these legendary goalkeepers.
Her career highlights are numerous, including standout performances in four World Cups and Olympics. Naeher’s crucial penalty save against England in the 2019 World Cup semi-final propelled the US to victory. In the 2024 Olympics, she set a new USWNT record with four shutouts in a single Olympic tournament. She also made history at the 2023 World Cup by becoming the first goalkeeper to score and successfully convert a penalty kick.
“Having the opportunity to be a part of the USWNT for the past 15 years has been the greatest honor,” Naeher said in a statement. She expressed gratitude for her teammates, coaches, and family, highlighting the enduring friendships and memories forged throughout her career.
While retiring from international play, Naeher will continue her professional career with the Chicago Stars in the NWSL. Her legacy as one of the greatest goalkeepers in USWNT history is firmly cemented.
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