United States women’s national team legend and icon Kelley O’Hara had a bittersweet conclusion to her career as injuries ended her final season early.
She had planned to retire after the 2024 NWSL season, but was forced to hang up her boots in September.
Her club, Gotham FC, announced she was on the season-ending injury list meaning the Bats’ 2-1 victory vs. Houston Dash on Sept. 8 was her O'Hara's final appearance.
O’Hara spoke about her decision on “Fast Friends” saying the choice wasn’t easy as her knee was a major concern.
Why did Kelley O'Hara retire?
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“Obviously I loved being back on the field and I loved to be able to go out there, have fun, compete and be with my teammates and friends,” O’Hara said on the podcast. “But, it was just ruining my body for what?”
In an ironic twist, O’Hara played her final game on the same day as former USWNT teammate and close friend Alex Morgan. O’Hara jokingly texted Morgan asking, “call me so we can cry together?”
O’Hara finishes her career with a litany of titles and accolades including two NWSL Championships and a WPS Championship from 2010 with FC Gold Pride.
The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist will be honored during the USWNT’s upcoming friendly vs. Iceland on Oct. 27 in Nashville, Tennessee.
O’Hara made 160 appearances for the national team which puts her at No. 21 on the list for most USWNT appearances.
