**Announcement: San Diego Wave FC Head Coach Announces Alex Morgan’s Retirement**
*San Diego, CA – January 22, 2025* – In a heartfelt and bittersweet announcement, San Diego Wave FC’s head coach, Casey Stoney, officially confirmed that forward Alex Morgan has decided to retire from professional football. After a distinguished career that has spanned more than 15 years, Morgan’s departure from the pitch marks the end of an era in women’s football, not just for San Diego Wave, but for the sport as a whole.
In an emotional statement released earlier today, Morgan expressed her gratitude to her teammates, coaches, and fans who have supported her throughout her legendary career. She reflected on the unforgettable moments she’s experienced, the triumphs with both club and country, and the incredible journey that has shaped her into one of the most iconic figures in the history of women’s football.
### A Legendary Career
Alex Morgan’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. Rising through the ranks of youth football in Southern California, she made her professional debut in 2011 and quickly cemented herself as one of the world’s premier players. Her dynamic playing style, athleticism, and leadership abilities made her a central figure for both the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) and her club teams.
Morgan’s time with the USWNT has been marked by historic accomplishments, including two FIFA Women’s World Cup titles (2015, 2019), a gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics, and multiple CONCACAF championships. Her impact on the field, particularly in high-pressure moments, was a testament to her resilience and unyielding commitment to excellence. She became a symbol not just for her skill but for her unrelenting drive to elevate the sport and inspire the next generation of female athletes.
At the club level, Morgan’s contributions to Orlando Pride and later to San Diego Wave FC have been equally impressive. Joining the Wave in 2022, she became the cornerstone of the team, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and contributing to their rise as one of the most competitive teams in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Morgan’s leadership, both on and off the field, has been a source of inspiration for her teammates and fans alike. Her ability to perform consistently at the highest level while helping to grow the sport in the U.S. and globally has solidified her legacy as a true pioneer in women’s football.
### A Letter From Alex Morgan
In her retirement letter, Morgan reflected on the many highs and lows of her career. She spoke with gratitude for the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the challenges overcome.
*”To my fans, teammates, and supporters,*
*As I look back on the many years I’ve had the privilege of playing the game I love, I am filled with immense gratitude. This sport has given me so much more than I could have ever imagined, from the chance to represent my country on the global stage to the joy of playing alongside some of the most talented athletes in the world.*
*To my teammates, past and present, you are the reason I’ve been able to achieve everything I have. We’ve shared incredible moments together, and I will forever cherish those memories. Each training session, each match, each victory, and even each loss, has shaped me into the player I am today.*
*To the fans, your unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation. You are the heartbeat of this sport, and it has been an honor to play for you. I will forever be grateful for the way you’ve embraced me, not only as a player but as an ambassador for the game.*
*I also want to thank my family for their endless love and encouragement. Without them, none of this would have been possible. From the very beginning, they believed in me even when I doubted myself, and their support has been a guiding light throughout my career.*
*While it is difficult to say goodbye, I know that the time has come to turn the page. Football will always be a part of me, but I am excited for what lies ahead. I look forward to the next chapter in my life, and I will continue to support the growth and development of women’s football in any way I can.*
*Thank you, and I will always cherish these memories.”*
### A Lasting Legacy
Morgan’s decision to retire comes at a time when women’s football is more visible than ever. The growth of the NWSL, the global success of the USWNT, and the increasing recognition of women’s sports as a whole are testament to the hard work of pioneers like Morgan, who played a vital role in driving change and inspiring young athletes around the world.
As a player, Morgan’s on-field achievements are undeniable, but her influence off the pitch has been just as significant. She has used her platform to advocate for gender equality, better representation, and greater investment in women’s sports. Her impact goes beyond goals and trophies, extending to her role as a role model and mentor to countless aspiring players.
Head Coach Casey Stoney shared her thoughts on Morgan’s impact: *“Alex has been a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Her leadership, both on and off the field, has set the standard for what it means to be an elite professional. She’s not just a world-class athlete; she’s a true ambassador for the game. We are incredibly grateful for everything she’s done for this club and for the sport of women’s football as a whole.”*
While Morgan will no longer grace the field as a player, her legacy is firmly etched into the fabric of women’s football. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, the influence of pioneers like Alex Morgan will remain a guiding force for future generations.
### The Future
As Morgan steps into retirement, her focus will shift to new endeavors, including continuing her advocacy work, mentoring young players, and perhaps exploring opportunities in media or coaching. Whatever her next chapter holds, one thing is certain: Alex Morgan’s influence on football will be felt for years to come.
San Diego Wave FC, the NWSL, and the football world at large owe a debt of gratitude to Alex Morgan, whose contributions will forever be remembered.
