Alyssa Naeher retires after 16-year career

Alyssa Naeher announced her retirement from professional soccer at 38, ending a career that included 11 seasons with the Chicago Stars and a decorated run with the U.S. women’s national team. She retires as the NWSL’s career leader in goalkeeper saves and appearances, with 50 regular-season shutouts, and as a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist. Naeher was central to the U.S. victories at the 2019 World Cup and 2024 Paris Olympics, delivering key saves and shutouts, including in both tournament finals. Chicago leaders and teammates praised her as a defining player and captain whose records and leadership shaped the club.