PARIS (AP) — U.S. national team player Crystal Dunn is retiring from professional soccer to spend more time with her family after an illustrious playing career.
The 33-year-old from New York helped the U.S. Win the 2019 Women’s World Cup and Gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
“This decision was not easy, but I am at peace and deeply satisfied with everything I have accomplished,” she wrote in an Instagram post on Thursday. “I have achieved almost everything I ever dreamed of in this sport and have given it my all.
“I’m ready for the life that awaits me on the other side,” she continued. “I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and being a more present mother.”
Dunn had a contract with Paris Saint-Germain, who announced on Thursday that the two sides had agreed to end their partnership. A versatile player who has contributed in multiple positions, Dunn joined PSG in January 2025 after leaving Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League. She appeared in nine games for PSG, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
Dunn played in 160 games for the United States and scored 25 points.
“As one of the first black stars of the U.S. Women’s National Team, and especially as a field player, Dunn has long served as a role model for many young players of color across the country aiming to reach the highest levels,” the U.S. Soccer Federation said in an announcement about Dunn’s retirement.
“Dunn’s career will be remembered for her versatility, her incredible one-on-one defense, ability to perform well beyond her size (5 feet 1 inch), popularity among her teammates, ability to inspire generations of U.S. Women’s National Team players, and numerous victories,” the federation continued.
Before Gotham, Dunn played for the Portland Thorns and took most of 2022 off for the birth of his son Marcel. She also played for the North Carolina Courage, Chelsea and Washington Spirit.
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