Julie Ertz announced her retirement from professional soccer last week. Ertz made the announcement via Instagram, stating, “with immense emotion and processing, I’ve decided to hang up my boots.”
Ertz was born in Mesa, Arizona, and after a successful club career, attended Santa Clara University. While playing midfielder for the Broncos, Ertz tallied 31 goals in 73 appearances during her four-year career.
After her college career, she was picked third pick in the 2014 NWSL draft. She played for the Red Stars from 2014-2021, logging six goals in 95 appearances.
After a two-year hiatus from 2021-2023 due to an injury and the birth of her son Madden, she was ready to get back into soccer. Ertz signed with Angel City FC in April, preparing her for her third World Cup. She appeared in three games and scored one goal in her time with Angel City FC.
Ertz, however, is known for her play with the United States Women’s National Team. She began playing for the USWNT in 2013. During her ten-year career, she appeared in 122 matches and scored 20 goals for the U.S.
Ertz was on the 2015 and 2019 winning World Cup teams, along with the disappointing 2023 World Cup team, which went out in the round of 16.
Ertz is grateful for her long career and the teammates she has played alongside during it, stating “my gratitude to all my teammates and coaches over the years can’t be put it into words.”
Being able to represent America on the grandest stage in the soccer world has been one of the highlights of Ertz career. “Representing this country on the national team has been the greatest honor,” she stated.
Ertz was the heart and soul of whatever team she played. Teammates, fans and coaches all loved her and the way she left it all out on the pitch every game.
Jayden Barfuss can be reached on [email protected] or on X @JaydenBarfuss10