Retiring Alyssa Naeher is top of mind for the USWNT ahead of their friendly match against England. Naeher, who recently announced her retirement from international soccer, expressed some nerves about discussing her decision with coach Emma Hayes.
Known for her composed presence, especially during high-stakes moments like World Cup penalty shootouts, Naeher felt a wave of normal anxiety when she approached Hayes last month at the USWNT training camp in Austin. The conversation marked a significant turning point for her.
“I think to have that conversation made it very real,” Naeher told reporters on Wednesday. Currently, the USWNT is training in London, preparing for a friendly against England at Wembley Stadium, followed by a match against the Netherlands on December 3 at ADO Den Haag Stadium.
“But it was a great conversation,” she added. “I approached her and said, ‘We talk about things in cycles, we discuss transitions, and I have a significant decision to make as an individual, just as you do as a team.’ Understanding her perspective was essential for me before finalizing anything.”
Hayes was supportive, appreciating Naeher’s contributions over the years. “It was a good conversation,” Naeher reflected.
As the USWNT’s starting goalkeeper since 2017, Naeher has built a legacy as a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist. Her calm demeanor and expertise in penalty situations have set a standard for U.S. goalkeepers. Younger teammate Naomi Girma remarked, “She’s helped guide younger players, and she’s been a cheerleader for everyone.”
At 36, Naeher stands as the oldest player on the roster and is the last member from the 2015 World Cup squad to compete in the recent Olympics. While she feels “at peace with the decision,” she acknowledges that endings can be daunting.
“I feel so much joy for her,” Girma said. “Seeing her receive recognition is wonderful, especially since she was underrated for so long. There will be sadness in not having her on the field and in camp, but she has had an incredible career, and going out on her own terms is remarkable.”
Naeher approached her retirement with a practical mindset, realizing she would be 39 at the next World Cup and 40 at the 2028 Olympics. Although she plans to continue playing for the Chicago Stars in the 2025 NWSL season, she feels fulfilled with her career.
“It takes a lot out of you,” she said. “I’ve always given everything to this team. If you can commit fully, then keep going.”
“After the Olympics and with the year we’ve had, entering a new stage for this team felt like the right time for me to step back,” she concluded.
As 2024 approaches, marked by Hayes’ leadership and the team’s recent gold medal win, the focus shifts toward the 2027 World Cup. This European trip is strategically planned to provide younger players with valuable experience against formidable opponents. The U.S. reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the FIFA rankings after the Paris Olympics, while England ranks No. 2 and the Netherlands is 11th.
This window may be Naeher’s final appearance, but Hayes will likely explore options for the future. New talents like Mandy Haught from the Utah Royals and Manchester United’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce could see playing time. Familiar faces like Casey Murphy, Jane Campbell, and Aubrey Kingsbury remain in the mix to succeed Naeher.
Though Naeher is still getting to know Haught and Tullis-Joyce, she is eager to share her insights.
“I’m excited about the new generation of goalkeepers,” Naeher said. “I aim to demonstrate the importance of preparation and the right mindset for training at this level.”
“While everyone wants to play, only one can be on the field at a time. It’s about pushing each other daily in training and supporting whoever is on the field, knowing that support will return when it’s your turn.”
Succeeding the iconic Hope Solo, Naeher learned the importance of carving her own path without comparisons.
“I had the chance to learn from her and other great goalkeepers like Nicole Barnhart, Ashlyn Harris, and Jill Loyden. Those early training sessions were pivotal in shaping my career,” she noted.
It is fitting that one of Naeher’s last matches may be against England, a team she faced in a defining moment during the 2019 World Cup when she saved a crucial penalty in the semifinal, helping the U.S. secure a spot in the final.
The U.S. last faced England at Wembley in October 2022, suffering a 2-1 defeat.
“This match offers a great opportunity for us against high-quality opponents in Europe,” Naeher said. “Facing challenging environments is vital for team development, and it will be a fitting way to conclude the year as we build for the future.”
