Crystal Dunn, one of the most versatile and accomplished players in U.S. women’s soccer history, announced her retirement from the sport on Thursday at the age of 33. In an emotional post on Instagram, Dunn shared that the decision was motivated by her desire to spend more time with 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 wrote. “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 one made with immense gratitude for everything I’ve experienced as a professional soccer player.”
Dunn’s professional journey spanned more than a decade, encompassing both domestic and international success. In January 2025, she joined Paris Saint-Germain from Gotham FC but saw limited playing time, making just one appearance in the 2025-26 season. Despite limited club minutes in her final year, Dunn’s impact on the U.S. Women’s National Team and in domestic leagues is undeniable.
Internationally, Dunn was part of the U.S. squad that won the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic gold medal. She began her international career as a teenager, competing in the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, the 2010 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, and helping the United States win the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Japan.
U.S. Soccer lauded Dunn’s career as “brilliant,” highlighting her leadership, selflessness, and infectious personality. “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,” the organization said.
Dunn’s club career was equally remarkable. She played for six professional teams, including the Washington Spirit, Chelsea, North Carolina Courage, Portland Thorns FC, and Gotham FC. With the Courage, she helped secure back-to-back NWSL Championships in 2018 and 2019, scoring in both the semifinal and final of the latter year. She later won another NWSL title with the Thorns in 2022 and captured the NWSL Shield three times (2018, 2019, and 2021).
Selected by the Washington Spirit as the first overall pick in the 2014 NWSL Draft, Dunn immediately made her mark in the league. Before turning professional, she had an illustrious collegiate career at the University of North Carolina, where she earned the MAC Hermann Trophy as college soccer’s top player in her junior year and helped lead the Tar Heels to the NCAA title. She was a four-time All-American and became the first player since Mia Hamm in 1993 to win ACC Player of the Year honors three times.
Dunn’s versatility on the field was a hallmark of her career. She excelled both as an attacking forward and as a defender, consistently adapting to the needs of her team. Her athleticism, tactical awareness, and unyielding work ethic allowed her to contribute at the highest level for club and country over a 12-year senior international career.
Throughout her career, Dunn also became known for her off-field leadership. She was admired for mentoring younger players, fostering team unity, and maintaining a positive presence in locker rooms around the world. Fans often celebrated not just her talent, but also her warmth, humor, and vibrant personality.
Reflecting on her decision to retire, Dunn emphasized the importance of family and life beyond soccer. “I leave the game with a sense of peace and deep fulfillment for all that I’ve accomplished,” she 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.”
As one of the most decorated and influential players in U.S. women’s soccer, Dunn leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and inspiration. Her impact on the sport will be remembered not only for the trophies and titles but also for the dedication and joy she brought to every match she played.
While fans and teammates will miss her presence on the field, Dunn’s announcement also marks the start of a new chapter — one focused on family, personal fulfillment, and the next phase of a life defined by achievement, integrity, and passion.
