BREAKING NEWS : Alex Morgan retires from professional soccer and is expecting her second child…

Alex Morgan, a celebrated figure in women’s soccer, announced her retirement from professional play on September 5, 2024, at the age of 35. In her announcement, Morgan revealed that she is expecting her second child, a development that influenced her decision to retire. citeturn0search0

Early Life and Rise to Prominence

Born on July 2, 1989, in San Dimas, California, Alexandra Patricia Morgan began playing soccer at a young age. She attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she played for the Golden Bears and earned All-American honors. Her exceptional talent caught the attention of national team selectors, leading to her debut for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) in 2010.

Illustrious Career with the USWNT

Morgan’s international career was marked by significant achievements:

• 2012 London Olympics: She scored the decisive goal in the semifinal against Canada, propelling the U.S. to the final, where they secured the gold medal.
• 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups: Morgan played pivotal roles in both tournaments, contributing to the U.S. team’s victories and solidifying her status as a key player.
• 2012 London Olympics: She scored the decisive goal in the semifinal against Canada, propelling the U.S. to the final, where they secured the gold medal.

Throughout her tenure with the USWNT, Morgan earned 123 goals in 224 appearances, ranking her among the top scorers in the team’s history. citeturn0news13

Club Career and Achievements

Morgan’s club career was equally distinguished:

• Western New York Flash (2011–2012): She began her professional career here, making an immediate impact.
• Portland Thorns FC (2013–2014): Morgan was instrumental in the Thorns’ success, contributing to their NWSL Championship win in 2013.
• Orlando Pride (2016–2019): Her tenure with the Pride was marked by consistent performance and leadership.
• San Diego Wave FC (2022–2024): Morgan joined the Wave in 2022, where she continued to showcase her skill and leadership. In 2022, she won the NWSL Golden Boot, scoring 15 goals in 17 games. citeturn0search9

Retirement and Personal Life

Morgan’s decision to retire was influenced by her pregnancy with her second child. She expressed a desire to focus on her growing family and new ventures beyond soccer. citeturn0news14

Morgan married soccer player Servando Carrasco in 2014, and the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Charlie, in May 2020. In September 2024, Morgan announced she was expecting a baby boy, with her daughter eagerly anticipating her role as a big sister. citeturn0news10

Legacy and Impact

Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Morgan was a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports. She played a significant role in the fight for equal pay for female athletes, contributing to the broader movement for women’s rights in sports. citeturn0news13

Morgan’s retirement marks the end of an era for the USWNT and women’s soccer. Her contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of athletes.