USWNT great Crystal Dunn announces retirement after decorated career | USA women’s football team
Crystal Dunn, an Olympic champion and World Cup winner who made 160 appearances for the United States women’s national team, announced her retirement from professional soccer on Thursday.
A key figure in the United States’ 2019 World Cup victory and Olympic triumph in 2024, Dunn has lifted the NWSL Championship trophy three times, with the North Carolina Courage in 2018 and 2019 and with the Portland Thorns in 2022.
She also earned NWSL MVP and Golden Boot honors in 2015 with the Washington Spirit, who selected her No. 1 in the 2014 draft after her standout collegiate career at the University of North Carolina.
Dunn signed with Paris Saint-Germain in January 2025 – his second European club after a spell at Chelsea from 2017 to 2018 – but has made just one appearance this season.
A versatile and lethal talent in midfield and attacking positions, she later became a vital part of the national team’s defense, shining at left back although it was not her preferred role.
“I leave the game with a feeling of peace and a deep fulfillment for everything I have achieved,” the 33-year-old said in a statement. “I’m grateful for the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of working with, from teammates and coaches to family and friends, and for all the incredible times we’ve shared. I can’t wait to begin my next chapter.”
The New York native has made 160 appearances for the United States and scored 25 goals since his debut in 2013.
Dunn is the latest in a string of high-profile players from America’s modern golden era to retire. She played alongside Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan, becoming the foundation of the American backline.
Among the first black stars to break through in a once predominantly white U.S. women’s soccer program, 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,” Dunn said. “My trip wasn’t perfect, but it was beautiful.”
