Christen Press, one of the most celebrated names in women’s soccer, has officially announced her retirement from professional football. The Angel City FC forward will hang up her cleats at the conclusion of the 2025 NWSL season, marking the end of an illustrious career that has spanned more than a decade and left a lasting impact on the sport.

Christen Press: A Stellar Career with the USWNT

Press’s career with the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) is nothing short of remarkable. Over 155 international appearances, she amassed 64 goals and 43 assists, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest forwards in USWNT history. Between 2019 and 2021, she produced a phenomenal streak of 39 goals and assists in 38 matches, showcasing her consistency and skill at the highest level of women’s soccer.

Making her debut in February 2013 against Scotland, Press quickly made an indelible mark. She became just the third player in USWNT history to score a brace on her debut and added an assist in the same match. She continued her remarkable start by scoring again in her second international cap, becoming the first woman to score three goals in her first two matches with the national team.

Collegiate Success and Professional Clubs

Before rising to international fame, Press shone at Stanford University, where she won the prestigious Hermann Trophy in 2010 and set multiple collegiate records. Her professional career spanned several top clubs around the globe:

• Tyresö FF in Sweden, where she won the Golden Boot in the Damallsvenskan
• Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC, capturing the Swedish Cup in 2012
• Chicago Red Stars, Utah Royals, and Angel City FC in the NWSL

She also played a pivotal role in European competitions, earning a runner-up medal in the 2013-14 UEFA Women’s Champions League with Tyresö FF.

Press’s International Achievements

Christen Press’s career with the USWNT is decorated with countless honors, reflecting her talent and dedication to the game:

• FIFA Women’s World Cup titles: 2015, 2019
• Olympic bronze medal: 2020
• SheBelieves Cups: 4 titles
• Algarve Cups: 2 titles
• CONCACAF Women’s Championships: 2 titles
• CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments: 2 titles
• Tournament of Nations: 2018 winner

Her contributions on the field have inspired a generation of young athletes, many of whom cite Press as a role model for their own soccer journeys.

Christen Press Reflects on Her Career

In an emotional statement released by Angel City FC, Press expressed her gratitude and love for the sport:

“It’s hard to find the words to say goodbye to a sport that has defined my life for over three decades. Football has given me everything, and I will miss being on the pitch so very much. Thank you to my family, friends, teammates, coaches, and community for this beautiful ride. I promise we will continue to reimagine sports in this next life!!”

Her words reflect not only the end of a personal journey but also her lasting impact on soccer culture, especially in the United States.

Leaving a Legacy

Christen Press leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations. She has not only been a top scorer and skilled forward but also a trailblazer for women’s sports, inspiring countless players to pursue their dreams. Her retirement marks the conclusion of an era in women’s soccer, but her influence will continue to shape the game long after she steps off the pitch.

As Press transitions into the next chapter of her life, the soccer community will remember her extraordinary contributions both on and off the field. From her Stanford days to international glory with the USWNT, Christen Press has defined excellence, resilience, and leadership in women’s football.