USWNT star and former World Cup and Olympic champion Dunn announces retirement

Crystal Dunn celebrates Olympic gold
Crystal Dunn celebrates Olympic goldReuters / Isabel Infantes

Crystal Dunn, an Olympic champion and World Cup ‍winner who made 160 appearances for the US women's national team, announced her retirement ​from professional soccer on Thursday.

A key figure in the United States' 2019 World Cup win and ‌their 2024 Olympic triumph, Dunn hoisted the championship trophy ‌in the top-flight NWSL three times, with the North Carolina Courage in 2018 and 2019 and with the Portland Thorns in 2022.

A versatile talent ⁠who was lethal in the midfield and forward positions, ‌she became a critical piece of the national team's ​defence, shining at left back despite it not being her preferred role.

"I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfilment for all that I’ve accomplished,” Dunn said in a ‌statement.

"I’m grateful for the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with, from teammates and coaches to family and friends, and all ⁠the amazing moments we’ve shared. I’m very much looking forward to my next chapter ahead."

Dunn is the latest in a series of high-profile players from the United States' modern golden age to retire. She played alongside the likes of Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan, cementing herself as a bedrock of the U.S. backline.

Among the first Black stars to break through in ⁠a once overwhelmingly white US women's soccer ‌programme, Dunn served as a role model for the next generation.

"I first kicked a soccer ball at the age of four, never knowing it would change my life," said ⁠Dunn. "My journey wasn’t perfect, but it was ​beautiful."

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