Becky Sauerbrunn, US defender, hangs up her cleats after a 16-year international soccer journey

CHICAGO — Recently, Becky Sauerbrunn announced her retirement from professional soccer after an impressive 16-year international career. The former captain of the U.S. women’s national team, Sauerbrunn played a pivotal role at three Olympic Games and three Women’s World Cups throughout her tenure.

At 39 years of age, Sauerbrunn has been a cornerstone in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), participating in every season since its inception. Over her illustrious career, she earned recognition as the league’s Defender of the Year four times and celebrated championships with FC Kansas City and the Portland Thorns, in addition to her time with the Utah Royals.

In a heartfelt statement, Sauerbrunn reflected on her journey, saying, “I learned early on that we were all just renting our jerseys. That I got to wear the U.S. Soccer crest once was an honor and privilege for which I’m forever grateful. The fact that I got to do it over 200 times is truly humbling. I competed with and learned from some of the greatest players and leaders this sport has ever seen, and I consider myself beyond lucky to have been able to play a small part in this program’s storied history.”

Establishing herself as a reliable presence, Sauerbrunn started 167 out of 182 matches for the national team from 2013 to 2024. Her career total of 219 caps places her tenth on the all-time list for the national team.

Sauerbrunn was instrumental in the U.S. team’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019. She played every minute in the 2015 tournament held in Canada and missed only one game during the 2019 tournament in France. During these competitions, the U.S. team conceded a mere three goals.

Additionally, she achieved a bronze medal at the 2021 Olympics, further highlighting her remarkable contributions to the sport. As she steps away from the pitch, her legacy will undoubtedly resonate with fans and aspiring athletes for years to come.