After a 13-year reign of dominance in professional soccer, San Diego Wave forward Alex Morgan is ready to retire. During a recent news conference, Morgan shared her vision for women’s soccer’s future and her hopes for its impact.

“I hope my legacy is that I pushed the game forward,” Morgan said. “That I helped gain respect for the women’s game, increased the value and investment in it, and helped players not only be respected but also protected.”

As a trailblazer for equal pay and women’s rights in soccer, Morgan has ensured better resources, player safety, and recognition for her fellow athletes. One of the most significant victories for Morgan and her teammates was achieving equal pay in 2022, a moment Morgan described as ‘a butterfly effect’ that has already begun to influence the global women’s soccer community.

Thank you🫶 pic.twitter.com/8BkofVOh3s

— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) September 5, 2024

A New Generation Inspired

Morgan, who is now 35 years old, is filled with pride as she sees younger players benefit from the progress she has made in her career. Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Naomi Girma, among other recent Olympians, were cited as examples of rising stars with a more straightforward path and more resources to succeed.

“That’s what I fought for,” Morgan said. “I’ve known I wouldn’t always benefit from all the things I fought for, but to see equal pay finally attained was a pivotal moment. The growth from here is irreversible.”

Morgan and her family were surprised when she learned she was pregnant with her second child, even though she planned to retire after the season. On social media, Morgan announced her pregnancy and retirement, confirming that Sunday’s match against North Carolina Courage will be her last.

“I was so happy because this was what our family wanted, but it came a couple of months sooner than expected,” she said. “I’m consulting with my doctor and talking with my husband about when I can safely play my last game.”

Morgan intends to play only a few minutes in her final match but is eager to savor the moment. “I just want to take in every moment of the game on Sunday,” she reflected. “It’s the accumulation of those little moments that you sometimes take for granted.”

A Storied Career Comes to a Close

 

The Western New York Flash in the now-defunct Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) league was where Morgan began her professional journey in 2011. She remembers finding out about her draft status while traveling to China with the national team, long before social media and widespread coverage of women’s soccer. “We’ve come a long way,” she said.

Throughout her distinguished career, Morgan has amassed numerous honors, such as two World Cup titles, an Olympic gold medal, and innumerable individual awards. Despite facing challenges in her final season, which included trying to find the back of the net, her leadership and experience have been vital to the Wave and the sport. Morgan focuses on her best moments, not just the victories but also the camaraderie that comes with them.

“Winning was great, but it was celebrating with friends and family, feeling human again after being so focused for so long,” she said. “Those moments stick with you, where you can be more than just an athlete.

What’s Next for Alex Morgan?

Morgan is determined to support women’s sports as she prepares for a future beyond soccer. She established the foundation for this next chapter by co-founding Togrethxr, a media and commerce company highlighting female athletes. Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel, and former WNBA star Sue Bird aim to challenge the status quo for women in sports by helping to create the visibility, resources, and respect they merit.

“I’ve found my calling in investing in women’s sports,” Morgan said. “That’s where I want to make the biggest impact. I’ve spent my entire career fighting for equality, and now I want to use that experience to help create more opportunities for the next generation.”

what’s next for @alexmorgan13?

“i’ve found my calling in investing in women’s sports” pic.twitter.com/HbMli3RKPU

— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) September 6, 2024

Although she ruled out coaching, Morgan is not entirely stepping away from the game. Her presence will have a lasting impact on the future of women’s soccer, both as an investor and advocate. Morgan’s influence will undoubtedly stay strong in the years ahead as she transitions from player to mentor.

Alex Morgan’s final game is approaching, and she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and a steadfast pursuit of equality. Despite her off-field work, her contributions to the sport have already secured her place in soccer history.

 

Alex Morgan’s plans involve impacting soccer and the wider world of women’s sports. “I hope young players can focus on just playing the game,” she said, “because that’s what I fought for.