Crystal Dunn Announces Her Retirement, Leaving a Lasting USWNT Legacy

Crystal Dunn retires from professional football at 33, concluding an illustrious career as one of the greatest figures in USWNT history. Her journey has not only been defined by silverware and individual honors but also by her cultural impact and trailblazing presence on and off the field.

Crystal Dunn’s USWNT Legacy: A Decade of Triumph

Crystal Dunn’s USWNT legacy stands as a testament to her skill, resilience, and versatility. Making her national team debut in 2013, Dunn quickly established herself as an essential component of the squad. Over 160 caps and 25 international goals, she played a pivotal role in the United States’ 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup victory and the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal, often excelling at left back—far from her natural attacking position. Her adaptability in high-pressure situations became her hallmark, earning widespread respect from teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.

A Storied Club Career Spanning Continents

Dunn’s club career mirrored her international success. Beginning with the Washington Spirit, she claimed the 2015 NWSL MVP and Golden Boot awards, quickly becoming a league standout. Her subsequent transfers to Chelsea, the North Carolina Courage, and Portland Thorns brought three NWSL Championships, cementing her status as a domestic powerhouse. In 2025, Dunn signed with Paris Saint-Germain, but her spell in France was brief as she shifted her priorities toward family life.

Personal Statement: A Peaceful Farewell

Announcing her retirement via Instagram, Dunn shared her gratitude for the journey, stating, “I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfillment for all that I’ve accomplished. I’m grateful for the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with, from teammates and coaches to family and friends, and all the amazing moments we’ve shared. I’m very much looking forward to my next chapter ahead.”

Crystal Dunn: Trailblazer and Role Model

Beyond the pitch, Crystal Dunn’s influence stretches into broader cultural significance. As one of the first Black women to star in a field position for the USWNT, she became a beacon of representation and inspiration for future generations. Her leadership, energy, and competitive spirit have made her not only a role model for aspiring athletes but also a champion for diversity and inclusion in U.S. soccer.

Impact and Recognition

Dunn’s accolades and impact are almost unparalleled. She leaves the game with:

• World Cup Winner’s Medal (2019)
• Olympic Gold Medal (2024)
• Three NWSL Championships
• NWSL MVP and Golden Boot (2015)
• Over 160 international appearances and 25 goals

But numbers alone don’t capture her influence. Dunn has consistently shown leadership through her advocacy for equal pay, her work as a mentor, and her efforts to open doors for young players of color across the United States.

What’s Next for Crystal Dunn?

With her playing days behind her, Dunn has expressed a desire to devote more time to her family—her husband, Pierre Soubrier, and their young son, Marcel. While she departs from competitive football, her legacy endures, both through the players she inspired and the generations she paved the way for.

Opinion: Dunn’s Retirement Marks the End of an Era

Crystal Dunn’s retirement is more than the closing of a celebrated career; it’s the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in USWNT and women’s football history. Few players have combined excellence, leadership, and off-field influence the way she has. The void left by her departure will be felt, but her spirit and legacy will shape U.S. soccer for years to come. For fans and aspiring footballers, she remains a shining example of what is possible—on the pitch and beyond.

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