USWNT great Crystal Dunn retires from soccer at 33

Field Level Media|published: Thu 29th January, 14:47 2026

American Crystal Dunn poses for a portrait outside of her home in Portland, Oregon. She is a defender for the U.S. Women's National Team. Xxx Crystaldunn 13 Jpg S Usa Or

Decorated defender Crystal Dunn announced her retirement from soccer on Thursday at age 33.

The U.S. Women's National Team great won the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup and 2024 Olympic gold medal.

The three-time NWSL champion, who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, made the announcement through a post on Instagram.

Dunn said she wants to spend more time with her husband, Pierre Soubrier, and 3-year-old son, Marcel.

"This decision has not come easily, but I am at peace and deeply fulfilled with all that I have accomplished," Dunn said. "I've achieved nearly everything I dreamed of in this sport and gave all I had to give.

"I'm ready to embrace the life that awaits me on the other side. I look forward to spending more time with my family and being a more present mom. This was not a decision made lightly, but was one made with immense gratitude for everything I've experienced as a professional soccer player."

Dunn previously played in the National Women's Soccer League with the Washington Spirit (2014-16), North Carolina Courage (2018-20), Portland Thorns (2020-23) and Gotham FC (2024). She won three championships (2018, 2019 and 2022) and three NWSL Shields (2018, 2019 and 2021). She also played for England's Chelsea from 2017-18.

She earned 160 caps and scored 25 international goals for the United States from 2013-25.

"Her effervescent personality, selflessness for her team and penchant for dancing at the drop of a beat always endeared her to teammates and coaches for club and country," U.S. Soccer said in a statement.

Dunn was the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NWSL Draft out of North Carolina, where she was a four-time All-American, a three-time ACC Player of the Year and won a national championship in 2012.

"I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfillment for all that I've accomplished," Dunn said. "I'm grateful for the incredible people I've had the privilege to work with, from teammates and coaches to family and friends, and all the amazing moments we've shared. I'm very much looking forward to my next chapter ahead."

--Field Level Media

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