Saying goodbye to an important figure is always bittersweet, especially when that figure is Alex Morgan. Last week, I changed my plans and made a spontaneous trip to San Diego, where I had the opportunity to witness Morgan’s final moments on the soccer field at Snapdragon Stadium. Watching her up close, I tried to capture every nuance of her emotions through my camera lens, ensuring that her legacy would be remembered not just as a player, but as a visionary paving the way for the next generation of female athletes.
After announcing her retirement at the age of 35, Morgan stepped off the pitch with grace and dignity, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the boundaries of sports. Instead of a long farewell tour, fans were given only a few days to process the news and contemplate the future of women’s soccer without Morgan on the field. However, Morgan is not just retiring; she is transitioning into Act Two, ready to make her mark as an investor and advocate for the game she loves.
Morgan in her final game (Meg Linehan/The Athletic)
Throughout her career, Morgan has been a trailblazer both on and off the field. She understood the power of her platform and used it to advocate for equal pay, better working conditions, and player protections. Beyond her athletic achievements, Morgan’s impact extends to her role in policy work and organizing efforts within the USWNT and NWSL players’ associations.
As Morgan bids farewell to professional soccer, she leaves behind a legacy that transcends wins and losses. Her ability to balance athleticism with activism, and her willingness to embrace her humanity in moments of triumph and defeat, sets her apart as a role model for aspiring athletes around the world.
While Morgan’s retirement marks the end of an era, it also signals a new beginning. As she embarks on Act Two of her career, fans can expect to see her continue to make an impact, not just on the field, but in the boardroom and beyond.
(Meg Linehan/The Athletic)
As we reflect on Alex Morgan’s remarkable career, we are reminded of the impact she has had on women’s soccer and the broader sports landscape. Her dedication to the game, both on and off the field, serves as an inspiration for future generations of athletes to follow in her footsteps.
Thank you, Alex Morgan, for everything you have done for the game and for empowering women athletes around the world. Your legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us all.
(Top photo: Jose Breton / Pics Action / NurPhoto; design: Dan Goldfarb)
