Alex Morgan Announces Soccer Retirement and Expecting Baby No. 2 in Emotional Video
Alex Morgan, a stalwart of the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), has officially announced her retirement from professional soccer while also revealing that she is expecting her second child. In an emotional video shared on September 5, the 35-year-old forward bid farewell to her career and embraced a new chapter in her life, underscoring her dual milestones with heartfelt sentiments.
In her video, Morgan expressed that her decision to retire was reached with much reflection. “At the beginning of 2024, I felt in my heart and soul that this was the last season that I would play soccer,” she shared. Although the decision was challenging, Morgan conveyed a sense of clarity and acceptance. “It wasn’t easy,” she admitted, “but I have much clarity about it.” Having been a crucial part of the USWNT since 2010, Morgan’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the team and the sport.
Morgan’s illustrious career includes 244 USWNT appearances, where she scored 123 goals and provided 53 assists—ranking her fifth on the all-time list. Her contributions were pivotal in securing two Women’s World Cup titles for the team in 2015 and 2019. Her final professional match is scheduled for September 8, when San Diego Wave FC will face the North Carolina Courage, providing a poignant conclusion to her on-field achievements.
Alongside her retirement announcement, Morgan shared joyous news about her personal life. She revealed that she and her husband, Servando Carrasco, are expecting their second child. The couple, who welcomed their daughter Charlie on May 7, 2020, are now preparing to expand their family. “This is also not the retirement video I expected when I initially thought I was going to do this because Charlie is going to be a big sister. I am pregnant,” Morgan said, her excitement palpable. “And as unexpected as this came, we are so overjoyed.”
Morgan’s announcement of her pregnancy adds an additional layer of significance to her retirement, symbolizing a fresh start both personally and professionally. She expressed deep gratitude for her family’s unwavering support throughout her career. “Family means everything,” she emphasized. “I wouldn’t be here without my husband and my family uplifting, motivating, encouraging, supporting me, and sacrificing for me over the last 15 years as a professional athlete.”
Reflecting on her soccer career, Morgan highlighted the deep connections she formed and the impact she had on advancing women’s sports. “I grew up on this team; it was so much more than soccer,” she said. Her involvement with Togethxr—a media and commerce company focused on promoting equality and diversity in women’s sports—demonstrates her ongoing commitment to the sport and its future.
Morgan’s legacy extends beyond her athletic achievements. She has inspired countless young athletes and has played a significant role in advancing the visibility and investment in women’s sports. Her reflections on her daughter’s aspirations to become a soccer player were particularly touching. “It just made me immensely proud—not because I wish for her to become a soccer player when she grows up but because a pathway exists that even a 4-year-old can see now,” Morgan said, with emotion. Her contributions have helped shape a future where young girls can envision themselves as athletes and see their dreams realized.
As Alex Morgan steps away from professional soccer, her impact on the sport and its growth remains profound. Her retirement and forthcoming family expansion mark the end of a notable chapter, but her influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the world of soccer and beyond. Her career has been defined by excellence, advocacy, and inspiration, setting a standard for future generations of athletes.
In summary, Alex Morgan’s announcement is a poignant blend of farewell and celebration, as she closes one chapter of her life and eagerly anticipates the next. Her legacy as a player and advocate for women’s sports will endure, while her new role as a mother further enriches her journey.