Alex Morgan’s emotional farewell to football

This Sunday, September 8, Alex Morgan stepped onto the field for the last time as a professional wearing a football kit. Snapdragon Stadium prepared to bid farewell to the legend as she deserved in a game where emotions were palpable from minute one.

Morgan took to the field wearing the captain’s armband and was greeted with fireworks and a standing ovation from the fans who had gathered at the stadium. Charlie, her daughter, accompanied her from the tunnel and throughout the ceremony prior to the first whistle.

Although it seemed that the forward would spice up her farewell by celebrating one last goal from the penalty spot in the 10th minute, the NC Courage goalkeeper stopped her shot.

Alex Morgan, icon of women’s football

It was not long before a corner from María Sánchez landed with Kennedy Wesley who duly sent the ball into the net. Minutes later, in the 13th minute, the match was stopped as Morgan came off as a substitute to thunderous applause during her last seconds as a professional.

Morgan was visibly emotional and could not hold back her tears; she removed her boots while still on the field as her teammates said goodbye to her with hugs and applause. The coaching staff joined in with the displays of affection and Snapdragon Stadium erupted to say goodbye to their legend.

Alex Morgan announced her retirement from professional soccer to make way for a new era on a personal level. The USWNT forward is going through her second pregnancy and shared her decision to end her professional career to fully enjoy time with her family.

Morgan’s role is not limited to goals and success for the USWNT; her impact on women’s soccer around the world goes beyond the sporting. She was one of the main figures who raised her voice for equal pay and the empowerment of women through sport.

Morgan’s accolades and titles throughout her career include two World Cups, a Champions League, an Olympic Gold and a NWSL title, as well as multiple individual awards.