Naeher set to retire from international football following the international break
Alyssa Naeher, the sole women's goalkeeper to achieve shutouts in both a World Cup and an Olympic final, announced her retirement from international football on Monday following two final matches with the United States team.
The 36-year-old goalkeeper is currently training with the US squad in London in preparation for upcoming matches against England on Saturday and the Netherlands on December 3.
Naeher was part of two World Cup-winning teams, serving as a backup to Hope Solo in the 2015 US squad and playing every minute during the US's title run in the 2019 World Cup. She also played a crucial role in securing gold for the US women at this year's Paris Olympics.
In the 2019 FIFA World Cup final in France, Naeher recorded a shutout against the Netherlands, winning 2-0, and she led the team to a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the gold medal match in Paris this year.
"Being a member of the USWNT for the past 15 years has been the greatest honor," Naeher stated.
"When I embarked on this journey, I could never have envisioned the path it would take, and I am immensely grateful for the remarkable teammates I have had the privilege to play alongside, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
"This team has been extraordinary, and I take immense pride in our accomplishments both on and off the field. The memories I have created throughout the years will remain with me forever."
Naeher earned her first cap for the US in a 7-0 victory over Argentina in Brazil in 2014, concluding her international career with a record of 88 wins, 6 losses, and 14 draws, alongside a goals-against average of 0.50.
She achieved 12 clean sheets while allowing only 12 goals in 22 Olympic and Women's World Cup matches.
Naeher will continue her career with the National Women's Soccer League's Chicago Stars in the 2025 season.
She was named the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year in 2014 while playing for Boston before being traded to Chicago in 2015, and she holds the NWSL records for the most saves and appearances by a goalkeeper.
SportsLigue