SAN DIEGO, Sept 9, V7N – US soccer legend Alex Morgan bid an emotional farewell to the game on Sunday, marking the end of her illustrious career during her final appearance for the San Diego Wave in their National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) match against North Carolina Courage.

The 35-year-old star, who announced her retirement just days earlier along with the news that she is expecting her second child, played 13 minutes in her last match at Snapdragon Stadium. Fans held up signs and wore shirts that paid tribute to Morgan, with messages like "Thank You Alex" and "SAND13GOAT," celebrating her impact on the sport.

Though the farewell didn't go perfectly as Morgan's penalty attempt in the 10th minute was saved, San Diego quickly equalized, setting the stage for her to leave the field at the 13-minute mark—honoring her jersey number. As she waved to the crowd and shared hugs with her teammates, the stadium erupted in chants of "Alex Morgan."

Before the game, Morgan shared that she was holding back emotions as she prepared for her final match. "I'm feeling really good, no tears, yet," she said in an interview with CBS Sports. She expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received and reflected on her journey: "The reason I am where I am today and who I am is because of so many people that just impacted me for the better."

Morgan, a two-time World Cup champion, has been a key figure in women's soccer both on and off the field. She played a pivotal role in the US Women's World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019 and was instrumental in the fight for equality in sports.

Throughout her 14-year international career, Morgan scored 123 goals, making her the fifth all-time leading scorer for the US Women's National Team. Her final appearance for the US came in June against South Korea, and her last goal was against Argentina in the Women's Gold Cup in February 2023.

Morgan's career achievements include 22 Women's World Cup matches and six goals in 16 Olympic appearances. Off the field, she has been an advocate for gender equality and made a cultural impact through her leadership and activism. Her club career saw stints at Portland, Lyon, and Tottenham, and she helped win titles in the US, France, and Europe.

As Morgan transitions into retirement, she leaves behind a legacy as one of the most influential players in women's soccer, continuing to inspire the next generation of athletes.

END/WSD/RH