From the Field to the Future: Kelley O’Hara Announces Retirement from Soccer and Reflects on Her Legendary Career

At the conclusion of her illustrious career in soccer, defender Kelley O’Hara announced that she will be retiring at the end of the 2024 NWSL season. After 35 years on the field, O’Hara made the decision to retire due to concerns about the physical toll that soccer was taking on her body. Through Just Women’s Sports, she shared her decision in an article and a special YouTube video called “Kelley on the Street.”

Throughout her storied career, O’Hara has played for both the USWNT and Gotham FC. Reflecting on her decision to retire, she expressed gratitude for everything she had accomplished and the people she had played alongside. She has been involved in soccer since childhood and has represented the United States in numerous tournaments and championships throughout her career.

Looking forward to what lies ahead, O’Hara is uncertain but knows that she wants to remain connected to the sport and give back to future generations of players. While she may not yet know how she will contribute to soccer, she is eager to continue growing it into a more inclusive and equitable sport for all.