Crystal Dunn retires: USWNT legend announces shock exit at 33

Crystal Dunn, one of the most versatile and accomplished players in US women’s soccer history, has officially retired from professional football at the age of 33. The announcement came on Thursday (January 29), through a heartfelt Instagram post where the former World Cup champion revealed her decision to step away and prioritize family life.

A heartfelt farewell to the game

Crystal Dunn shared an emotional message explaining her decision to step away. "This decision has not come easily, but I am at peace and deeply fulfilled with all that I have accomplished," she said. "I’ve achieved nearly everything I dreamed of in this sport and gave all I had to give."

She continued, "I’m ready to embrace the life that awaits me on the other side. I look forward to spending more time with my family and being a more present mom. This was not a decision made lightly, but was one made with immense gratitude for everything I’ve experienced as a professional soccer player."

The New York native cited her desire to prioritize family life with husband Pierre Soubrier and their 3-year-old son Marcel as key factors in her choice.

Crystal Dunn’s international journey

Crystal Dunn’s international journey with the USWNT is legendary. After being surprisingly left off the 2015 World Cup squad, she transformed that disappointment into fuel for greatness. Over the years, she collected 160 caps, scored 25 goals, and became a cornerstone of two major tournament triumphs, helping the United States win the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Known for her incredible adaptability, Dunn often played left back for the national team despite thriving as an attacking midfielder or forward at the club level. She started every minute of the 2019 World Cup at left back and was nearly ever-present in the 2024 Olympic run, missing only 75 minutes across the tournament.

Club glory and NWSL dominance

Crystal Dunn was selected first overall by the Washington Spirit in the 2014 NWSL Draft. She exploded in 2015, winning both the Golden Boot and league MVP honours. She later clinched three NWSL championships, two with the North Carolina Courage (2018, 2019) and one with the Portland Thorns (2022).

Her resume also includes a successful stint at Chelsea under Emma Hayes (2017-2018), a season with Gotham FC in 2024, and a brief final chapter with Paris Saint-Germain in 2025, where limited playing time marked the beginning of her transition away from the game.

College stardom and lasting impact

Before turning pro, Crystal Dunn dominated at the University of North Carolina, earning the MAC Hermann Trophy as the nation’s top college player and leading UNC to an NCAA championship.

Her retirement leaves behind a legacy of resilience, positional versatility, and championship pedigree that will inspire generations of young players.