USWNT legend Julie Ertz says goodbye, departs with a legacy of humility and fierceness

Ertz departs from professional soccer with win against South Africa

CINCINNATI -- The U.S. national team program said farewell to one of their most prolific players on Thursday as Julie Ertz officially stepped away from the game after multiple titles and accolades. The defensive player retires to shift her focus toward family, a priority she has also placed emphasis on during her career. A 3-0 win over South Africa on Thursday night served as the farewell game for the legendary American.

She leaves the game with two World Cups, an Olympic medal and a club career spent entirely in the National Women's Soccer League. Ertz made a return to the pitch earlier this year after navigating a knee injury and later maternity leave. Her comeback in April made headlines just four months out from the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Despite the USWNT's early exit during the tournament, there was praise for the defensive backline, where the coaching staff slotted Ertz at center back. 

The move brought curiosity and criticism on Ertz's "preferred role" as a player, previously winning World Cups both as a center back in 2015 and a defensive midfielder in 2019. Would the shift back offer an opportunity for Ertz to prolong her already iconic career? The answer belonged to Ertz, and ultimately, her departure comes with peace of mind and a final decision on her terms.