Kelley O’Hara, a two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, has announced her retirement from professional soccer at the end of the 2024 National Women’s Soccer League season. O’Hara had a successful career playing for the United States, participating in four Women’s World Cups and three Olympic Games. She was part of the USA squad that won the World Cup in 2015 and 2019, as well as the Olympic gold medal at the London Games in 2012. O’Hara made a total of 160 appearances for the USWNT and was one of only 12 players in team history to play in four World Cups.
In addition to her numerous international achievements, O’Hara also found success at the club level, winning the NWSL with Washington Spirit in 2021 and Gotham FC in 2023. The 35-year-old announced her decision to retire through Just Women’s Sports’ video series “Kelley On The Street”, expressing her gratitude to all those who supported her throughout her career. O’Hara reflected on her lifelong passion for soccer, stating that while there will inevitably be tears at the end of her playing days, she hopes for more smiles as she looks back on her accomplishments.
As a key member of the USA’s defense, O’Hara made her international debut in 2010 and captained the team four times during her 14-year international career. She played her final USWNT game on August 6, 2023, against Sweden at the World Cup. O’Hara joins a list of recent major USWNT retirements, including players such as Megan Rapinoe, Julie Ertz, and Sam Mewis. In a statement released by US Soccer, O’Hara expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country and wear the U.S. Soccer crest. She reflected on her accomplishments and emphasized the importance of the relationships she formed with her teammates and coaches throughout her career.
O’Hara’s decision to retire marks the end of an era for women’s soccer, as one of the sport’s most accomplished and respected players steps away from the game. Her contributions to the USWNT and the NWSL have left a lasting impact on the sport, and her leadership on and off the field will be remembered by fans and fellow players alike. As O’Hara prepares for the final season of her professional career, she leaves a legacy of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship that will inspire future generations of soccer players.
Looking ahead to the 2024 NWSL season, O’Hara will have the opportunity to add to her list of accomplishments before officially retiring. Fans and teammates will have the chance to celebrate her career and show their appreciation for all that she has brought to the game. As O’Hara takes her final steps on the field, she will undoubtedly be surrounded by love and support from those who have been touched by her talent and passion for soccer.
In the years to come, O’Hara’s impact on women’s soccer will continue to be felt as her legacy inspires young athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness. Her dedication to the sport and her commitment to excellence serve as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. As O’Hara closes this chapter of her life, she leaves behind a storied career that will be remembered for its remarkable achievements and its lasting influence on the world of women’s soccer.
