Former USWNT and Chicago Stars Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher Retires at 38

Veteran goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher has officially announced her retirement from soccer at the age of 38, bringing a legendary 17-year professional career to a close. The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, who previously stepped away from international duty in 2024, stated on Friday that it was the right moment to hang up her gloves after completing her 11th season as captain of the NWSL club Chicago Stars.

Naeher leaves the sport as a pioneer in American women's soccer, having stood as one of just three active players from the inaugural 2013 NWSL season remaining in the league, alongside Jess Fishlock and Sydney Leroux. Throughout her club tenure, which included stints with the Boston Breakers and European side Potsdam alongside her 11 years in Chicago, she set multiple league milestones. She became the first NWSL goalkeeper to reach 200 starts and appearances, 60 wins with a single club, and 45 clean sheets with one club, in addition to earning a historic Ballon d'Or nomination in 2024.

On the international stage, Naeher cemented her legacy as one of the finest netminders in U.S. history, earning 115 caps, 112 starts, and 69 clean sheets. U.S. Soccer previously honored her achievements ahead of an international friendly against Portugal in October 2024. Reflecting on her career via the club's website and Instagram, Naeher expressed deep gratitude for her time representing Boston and Chicago, noting that the relationships built over nearly two decades remain the most cherished part of her journey.

What to watch next: The Chicago Stars face a major rebuilding phase after finishing at the bottom of the NWSL standings for a second consecutive season, now tasked with replacing their iconic captain and leader.