U.S. women’s national soccer team legend Crystal Dunn has announced her retirement from the sport at the age of 33, revealing her decision in a heartfelt Instagram post. Dunn expressed her desire to dedicate more time to her husband, Pierre Soubrier, and their 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 shared. She noted that while she has realized most of her dreams in soccer, she is now ready to embrace a new chapter of life focused on family. Dunn emphasized that this significant choice was made with profound gratitude for her experiences as a professional athlete.
Dunn’s career has been remarkable, highlighted by her tenure with Paris Saint-Germain, which she joined in January 2025, although her time with the French club saw limited appearances for the 2025-26 season.
Throughout her career, Dunn showcased her versatility, transitioning from an initial disappointment at nearly missing the USWNT roster for the 2015 World Cup to becoming one of the most influential players in national team history. She earned 160 caps and scored 25 goals, playing a crucial role in the USWNT’s triumph in the 2019 World Cup and securing a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics.
At the club level, Dunn was particularly formidable, capturing the NWSL Golden Boot and MVP awards in 2015 with the Washington Spirit. She went on to win three NWSL titles—two with the North Carolina Courage in 2018 and 2019, and one with the Portland Thorns in 2022. Her playing journey also included time at Gotham FC in 2024, and a prior stint with Chelsea, where she was coached by future USWNT manager Emma Hayes.
Dunn’s adaptability was evident as she played primarily as a left back for much of her national team career, despite her natural inclination towards attack. She thrived in this role, contributing extensively to the team’s defense and participating in every minute of the 2019 World Cup and nearly every minute in the successful gold medal campaign in 2024.
Additionally, Dunn had a stellar college career at the University of North Carolina, where she was awarded the MAC Hermann Trophy and played a key role in winning an NCAA championship.
Crystal Dunn leaves behind a legacy filled with achievements and has set a positive example for dedication, resilience, and the importance of family. Fans and fellow athletes alike will surely remember her contributions to the sport and her role in advancing women’s soccer.