Kelley O’Hara, a two-time Women’s World Cup champion and a veteran full-back for the USWNT, has announced that she will be retiring at the end of the 2024 National Women’s Soccer League season with NJ/NY Gotham FC. This decision marks the end of a remarkable career that saw O’Hara achieve great success on both the national and professional stages.
Throughout her illustrious career, O’Hara has been a key figure for the USWNT, helping the team secure victories in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups. Her contributions on the field were instrumental in the team’s success, as she made 160 appearances and became one of the only 12 players in team history to play in four World Cups. Additionally, O’Hara represented the US in three Olympics, winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Games.
In addition to her international achievements, O’Hara also enjoyed success at the professional level. She won three championships, one in the now-defunct Women’s Professional Soccer league and two in the NWSL. O’Hara’s knack for scoring crucial goals was on full display, with her extra-time goal in the 2021 NWSL Championship helping the Washington Spirit clinch the league trophy. She continued her winning ways by leading Gotham FC to its first NWSL Championship title last year.
O’Hara’s career was highlighted by her versatility and tenacity on the field. Known for her elite athleticism and fierce competitiveness, she was a player who consistently made impact plays and demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. One of her most memorable moments came in the 2015 World Cup semifinal victory over Germany when she scored a crucial goal as a substitute winger. Her ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations solidified her status as a top-tier player.
Despite battling injuries throughout her career, O’Hara always found a way to push through and continue competing at the highest level. Her perseverance and dedication to the sport were evident in her willingness to play through pain and contribute to her team’s success. O’Hara’s presence both on and off the field left a lasting impact on those around her, serving as a source of inspiration for her teammates and fans alike.
As Kelley O’Hara prepares to hang up her boots at the end of the 2024 NWSL season, the soccer world bids farewell to a true legend of the game. Her remarkable career, filled with triumphs and challenges, will forever be remembered as a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for the sport. O’Hara’s legacy as a champion and role model will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness and never give up on their dreams.
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