Aug. 31 (UPI) — Julie Ertz, a longstanding midfielder/defender for the United States Women’s National Team, has made the decision to retire from professional soccer. The announcement was made by Ertz herself on her social media accounts.
At the age of 31, Ertz stated, “As I have gotten older and become a mom, it’s clear the sacrifices of time away from my family no longer seem doable with so many factors at play.”
Julie Ertz and her husband, NFL tight end Zach Ertz, welcomed their son, Madden Matthew, in August 2022.
After much contemplation, the two-time World Cup champion made the difficult choice. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram and Twitter, Ertz expressed her immense gratitude to all her teammates and coaches who have been a part of her journey. She acknowledged the highs and lows of being an athlete and the role her teammates played in her growth and success.
Ertz earned her first international team cap in 2013 and went on to make 122 appearances for the United States. Born in Mesa, Arizona, she married NFL star Zach Ertz in 2016. Following the birth of their son, Ertz was unsure if she would continue playing soccer.
Ertz emphasized the impact her teammates had on her life, saying, “These girls gave me a gift I could never repay and I got to live out a dream I wish for everyone: falling in love with a sport you have played your whole life and getting to share it with your son.”
Notably, Ertz played in all four games for the United States at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. She also participated in eight matches this season for Angel City FC in the National Women’s Soccer League. Ertz expressed disappointment at not being able to continue with Angel City for the playoffs.
Addressing her fans, Ertz expressed her appreciation for their support and the unforgettable experiences she had on the field. She acknowledged that retirement may not have been a choice she had planned for, but she is grateful for the opportunity to have given her all as a player.
Ertz thanked her family for their unwavering support and expressed excitement for the next phase of her life. She also expressed her deep connection with the game of soccer and the profound impact it has had on shaping her as a person.
