Who Is Alex Morgan? Legendary American Soccer Player Retires

American soccer icon Alex Morgan ended her football career, playing her final match on September 8. The 35-year-old striker played the first 13 minutes of the San Diego Wave’s National Women’s Soccer League match against the North Carolina Courage in California. In her emotional post-match farewell speech, she also revealed that she was pregnant with her second child.

The audience was left teary-eyed as they heard the two-time World Cup champion's heartfelt speech. Her fans were seen adorning t-shirts that read, "SAND13GOAT”, referencing her club and shirt number, and holding placards saying "Thank you, Alex." 

Motherhood And Football

In the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Morgan felt the mental toll of being away from her one-year-old daughter, Charlie. It didn't take long for Morgan to use the same mental and emotional strength as a ladder to return to the field at the 2023 World Cup like never before. She told TIME Studios that sometimes, it's okay to not be in top form, what matters is her heart is in the right place.

Morgan credited motherhood for regaining a sense of balance, something that helps her game as well, "I'm not being too hard on myself for minor things. It's fine if I don't do something perfectly. It's okay. Parenthood just makes me feel more balanced all around."

Watch her emotional retirement speech, announcing her second pregnancy

Highest Paid Woman Footballer

With an annual income of $7.1 million, Morgan was named the world's highest-paid female footballer. As co-captain of the USWNT during the 2023 World Cup, she boasted a valuable endorsement portfolio, collaborating with brands like Hublot, Bodyarmor (Coca-Cola's product), and Michelob Ultra (Anheuser-Busch), even featuring in a Super Bowl commercial with notable celebrities such as Serena Williams and Brian Cox from Succession.

Additionally, as a co-founder of the media company Togethxr, she is actively involved in producing a Netflix docuseries on America's recent World Cup journey, scheduled to be released in the fall. Moreover, she has expanded her philanthropic endeavours through a foundation she launched in March.

One Of The Highest Goal Scorers

With 123 goals to her name, Morgan is one of the highest goal scorers in the history of international women's football. She scored her 100th international goal on April 4, 2019, at the Women's International Friendlies against Australia. She became the seventh female American to score over 100 goals, joining the league of Abby Wambach, Mia Hamm, Carli Lloyd, Kristien Lilly, Michelle Akers, Tiffeny Milbrett and the like.

Morgan's Marriage To Servando Carrasco

In the realm of soccer, Alex Morgan and American Football Player Servando Carrasco form the ultimate power couple. They initially crossed paths during their college days and have been each other's steadfast supporters throughout their athletic journeys. In 2014, they tied the knot in a joyous New Year's Eve celebration and later became proud parents to their daughter, Charlie, born in 2020.

Youngest US Footballer in FIFA World Cup

Morgan's international career commenced early. At the age of 22, Morgan held the title of the youngest player on the national team during the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, where the team secured the runner-up position. Despite her young age, she showcased her talent by scoring her first goal during a crucial semifinal match.

Morgan's Role As A Writer

In 2012, Morgan inked a deal with Simon & Schuster to author The Kicks, a captivating four-book series aimed at middle schoolers. The books centre around four young girls and delve into themes of friendship, leadership, and soccer. Morgan expressed her desire for the books to serve as inspiration for young girls and to celebrate her passion for soccer.

The series includes Saving the Team (2013), Shaken Up (2015), Under Pressure (2017), and Switching Goals (2019). Moreover, she adapted the books into a comedy television series titled The Kicks, which aired from 2015 to 2016.