Crystal Dunn Hanges Her Cleats: USWNT Star Announces Retirement After Iconic Career
At 33, Crystal Dunn has made the difficult decision to retire from professional soccer after a decorated career that spanned over two decades. With an astonishing 160 appearances for the United States women's national team under her belt, Dunn leaves behind a legacy of triumphs and accolades.
A true champion, Dunn was instrumental in the USWNT's historic World Cup win in 2019 and their gold medal triumph at the 2024 Olympics. She had also led her teams to multiple NWSL championships with the North Carolina Courage and Portland Thorns. Her achievements on the field were matched by her impact off it - she was an inspirational force for young players, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
Dunn's versatility as a player made her a valuable asset to both her clubs and country. She could play anywhere in midfield and forward, but was perhaps best known for her exceptional defensive skills at left back. Her ability to shine in the spotlight was undeniable, earning her numerous individual awards including NWSL MVP and Golden Boot honors.
Despite struggling to make an impact during a brief stint with Paris Saint-Germain this season, Dunn remains proud of the incredible career she has had. In a statement, she expressed her gratitude for the people who have supported her throughout her journey, saying "I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfillment for all that I've accomplished." As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Dunn will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest players in USWNT history.
At 33, Crystal Dunn has made the difficult decision to retire from professional soccer after a decorated career that spanned over two decades. With an astonishing 160 appearances for the United States women's national team under her belt, Dunn leaves behind a legacy of triumphs and accolades.
A true champion, Dunn was instrumental in the USWNT's historic World Cup win in 2019 and their gold medal triumph at the 2024 Olympics. She had also led her teams to multiple NWSL championships with the North Carolina Courage and Portland Thorns. Her achievements on the field were matched by her impact off it - she was an inspirational force for young players, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
Dunn's versatility as a player made her a valuable asset to both her clubs and country. She could play anywhere in midfield and forward, but was perhaps best known for her exceptional defensive skills at left back. Her ability to shine in the spotlight was undeniable, earning her numerous individual awards including NWSL MVP and Golden Boot honors.
Despite struggling to make an impact during a brief stint with Paris Saint-Germain this season, Dunn remains proud of the incredible career she has had. In a statement, she expressed her gratitude for the people who have supported her throughout her journey, saying "I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfillment for all that I've accomplished." As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Dunn will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest players in USWNT history.
i mean we've grown up watching her crush it on the field and now its like a part of our lives is gone 
she was always so much more than just a player, she was an inspiration to so many young girls from all over the world especially those who look like her 
I remember watching her play for North Carolina Courage and being blown away by her skills on the field 
she was like a superhero, but instead of superpowers she had a ball and a pair of cleats 
and now we'll never get to see what's next for her 
. she's had an amazing career and deserves every ounce of praise and recognition 
. 160 appearances for the uswnt is no joke, and to think about all the milestones she's achieved - world cup win, olympic gold, multiple nwsl championships... it's mind-blowing 
Crystal Dunn's retirement is such a bummer... I mean, what can you even say? The girl had an incredible career and did so much for women's soccer 
. I'm still trying to process how she went from being unstoppable on the field to struggling in France this season 
. But honestly, it's awesome that she's leaving on her own terms and with so many accomplishments under her belt 
. That quote about feeling a sense of peace and fulfillment? 
.
. I mean, can you blame her though? All those years of hard work and dedication have taken their toll 
. I love how she's acknowledging the struggles at PSG this season tho - it takes guts to admit when you're not on 
form. Anyway, I'm gonna miss watching her play, but at least we get to see her shine in retirement 
!
Like, Crystal was such a key player and now she's just... gone 
Also, did she have any other big plans after retiring from soccer or is she just gonna chill now 
And let's not forget about those defensive skills at left back - she was a total rockstar out there! 
. A legacy like hers won't be easy to follow 
. i mean, 160 appearances for the uswnt? that's just crazy! and to think she's not even bitter about not scoring as many goals as some of her teammates lol... i love how humble she is too. she always seemed like a team player, but at the same time, you can tell she's got so much talent and skill. i'm gonna miss watching her play 