#fifawwc

After an extraordinary career defined by brilliance, resilience, and grace, Christen Press has announced that she will retire from professional soccer at the end of the 2025 NWSL season. Her club, Angel City FC, confirmed the news on Wednesday, closing the final chapter of one of the most inspiring journeys in U.S. women’s soccer history.

At 36, Press leaves behind a legacy few can match — two FIFA Women’s World Cup titles, an Olympic bronze medal, and a reputation as one of the United States’ most dynamic and beloved forwards. Known for her creativity, intelligence, and calm precision in front of goal, she has been a symbol of persistence and passion both on and off the pitch.

A Career Defined by Excellence

Christen Press’ impact on the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) cannot be overstated. With 64 goals and 155 international caps, she ranks among the top scorers in team history, helping define a golden era that included legends like Carli Lloyd, Megan Rapinoe, and Alex Morgan.

Her international debut in 2013 marked the beginning of a decade of success that saw her become one of the team’s most versatile attackers. Whether playing as a striker, winger, or creative playmaker, Press’s technical finesse and composure in tight spaces made her a constant threat.

Her performances at the 2015 and 2019 World Cups helped solidify her place among the all-time greats. In both tournaments, the U.S. lifted the trophy, and Press’s contributions — from clutch goals to game-changing assists — played a crucial role in those triumphs.

A Message from the Heart

In a heartfelt statement shared through her club, Press reflected on her decision to retire, saying:

“It’s hard to find the words to say goodbye to a sport that has defined my life for over three decades. Football has given me everything, and I will miss being on the pitch so very much. Thank you to my family, friends, teammates, coaches, and community for this beautiful ride.”

Her message encapsulates what made Press such a beloved figure — humility, gratitude, and authenticity. Even at the peak of her fame, she remained grounded, viewing soccer as a gift rather than a platform for ego.

On Instagram, she added another emotional note:

“I won’t leave this game believing I was ever the best player in the world. But I will leave feeling like I was one of the most loved.”

That sense of connection — between player and fans — is exactly what has defined Christen Press’s career. She was not only admired for her technical skill but also cherished for her warmth, honesty, and openness about mental health, identity, and personal growth.

Overcoming Adversity: The Road Back

Press’s story is also one of courage and perseverance. In June 2022, she suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, one of the most feared injuries in sports. The setback led to multiple surgeries and more than two years away from the pitch — a period that might have ended most careers.

But Press refused to let it define her. She fought her way back, returning to action late in 2024 for Angel City FC in what she called a “back from the dead” comeback. Her return wasn’t just about playing again; it was about reclaiming her identity as an athlete and proving that resilience could be just as powerful as victory.

That comeback will forever stand as one of the defining moments of her legacy — a reminder that greatness isn’t only measured in trophies but also in the strength to rise after falling.

The Legacy of Christen Press

Press’s retirement marks the end of an era, but her influence will continue to ripple throughout the sport. Beyond her achievements with the USWNT, she was a trailblazer for women’s professional soccer in the United States and abroad.

Before joining Angel City FC, Press played for Manchester United in England’s Women’s Super League, helping expand the reach of American talent internationally. Her time overseas not only elevated her own game but also strengthened the growing bridge between U.S. and European women’s soccer.

Off the field, she co-founded RE—INC, a lifestyle and purpose-driven brand with former teammates Megan Rapinoe, Tobin Heath, and Meghan Klingenberg, advocating for gender equality and inclusivity in sports and business.

Press’s dedication to using her platform for good has made her more than an athlete — she’s become a role model for empowerment, creativity, and self-expression.

The Final Whistle

For fans of both Angel City FC and the U.S. national team, Christen Press’s retirement is bittersweet. She represents the heart and evolution of modern women’s soccer — from grassroots beginnings to global superstardom — and her journey mirrors the growth of the game itself.

Her decision to retire doesn’t mark an end, but rather a transition. Whether she moves into coaching, media, or continues her advocacy work, Press’s impact will extend far beyond her playing days.

As she walks away from the pitch, she leaves behind not just records and medals, but memories of a player who inspired countless young athletes to dream big and play fearlessly.

A Farewell Worth Celebrating

Christen Press’s story is one of artistry, courage, and love — love for the game, love for her teammates, and love from the fans who watched her journey unfold. Few players have embodied the soul of the sport as fully as she has.

Her words, “I will leave feeling like I was one of the most loved,” ring true not just for her, but for the countless people whose lives she touched through her passion and perseverance.

As she steps away from professional play, the soccer world salutes her — a champion, a leader, and a beacon of inspiration.

For ongoing coverage of Christen Press’s farewell season, player tributes, and reflections on her legendary career, stay tuned to Sports Channel. From her first goal to her final game, Sports Channel will continue to celebrate her remarkable legacy and the indelible mark she leaves on women’s soccer.

Thank you, Christen Press, for everything.

It was an emotional roller coaster for Dionesa Tolentin. She was gutted to miss out on the Philippines squad for their first FIFA Women’s World Cup™, but was proud as punch with their performances Down Under. Olivia McDaniel, Hali Long, and Co gave Noelle Maritz, Lia Walti, Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, Ramona Bachmann, and Switzerland a strict examination in their opener, before Sarina Bolden headlined a stunning upset of co-hosts New Zealand.

“I really wanted to be part of that squad because it was my dream,” Tolentin told FIFA. “But I knew in myself there were still a lot of things to improve before getting called up. I was so happy and proud of what the team did. Even though I wasn’t part of the squad, I was still part of it in some way because I was in the Filipinas pool and played for them in 2019.”

Tolentin targeted playing in the global finals in 2027. She is set to do it sooner – and in front of her own people. The Philippines will have the honour of hosting the first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup™, and when it was announced they were holding try-outs for players last December, the Zamboanga del Norte native, who had already played the sport, gave it a shot.

The following month, Tolentin made her Filipina5 debut in AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup qualification, scoring in a 4-1 win over Kuwait.

“At that time, that was truly my personal goal,” said the 25-year-old. “I was incredibly eager to score because I really wanted to score for my country. I was so happy when I did.”

Tolentin now has new targets. She wants to score at the World Cup, help inspire young Filipina futsal players, and help Rafa Merino’s side succeed. They have Poland, Morocco, and Argentina for company in Group A.

“This is definitely a tough but challenging group, but we’ll work and train hard to show what we’re capable of,” said Tolentin. “This Filipina team may be new, but we have the grit and eagerness to learn new things every day. We have been training every day for the past months, and we’re ready to take on this new challenge and to represent our country.

“Our goal is to win. We want to perform well, show that we may be new, but we have got something to prove. Hopefully, our performances can inspire young girls who have hopes of becoming futsal players. Now there is a world stage for them. They can work towards this goal too.”

One girl Tolentin believes will be fundamental to Filipina hopes is Isabella Flanigan. The forward impressed as an 18-year-old at Australia & New Zealand 2023, and is also outstanding on courts.

“Everyone can have a big impact, and I trust them all, but I will highlight Bella Flanigan,” said Tolentin when asked which of Merino’s charges she expects to make the biggest impact. “That’s because she plays so smart, she has such a huge impact on the team, and she inspires me too.”

The Philippines will kick off their campaign in less than seven weeks. Poland will provide the historic occasion’s opposition amid what is guaranteed to be an electrifying atmosphere at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, Metropolitan Manila.

“As a Filipina, it would be such an honour to walk out in our national colours and hear our anthem at the World Cup,” said Tolentin. “The pressure is there, but it’s truly a privilege to play while carrying my country’s flag.

“I know it’s a moment bigger than myself. It's for my family, for every Filipino who dreams, and for our country. I’ll carry that pride with humility and give my very best on the court.”

Tolentin is certain tourists touching down on the paradisiacal archipelago will be thrilled.

“The Philippines is known for being hospitable,” she explained. “We have a very friendly culture, and I hope our visitors get to experience this. Also, they should try our food! They will definitely enjoy some of our cuisines.”

Fans can catch all the action and free sports live, showcasing Tolentin and her teammates’ journey in the first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup. Watch all the thrilling moments unfold as the Philippines competes at home. If you want to follow the team’s progress, be sure to check out free sports live coverage of the event.

As the Philippines makes history by hosting the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, you can watch every match live and free. The excitement is building, and with so much on the line for the Filipina team, you won’t want to miss a minute of it. For those looking to watch free sports live, this is a must-follow tournament.

With the Philippines proudly represented on home soil, and the players’ hearts full of hope and determination, the tournament promises to be a spectacular celebration of women’s futsal. Be sure to tune in and catch all the free sports live action.

Het vrouwenvoetbal in Nederland blijft zich razendsnel ontwikkelen. Nieuwe namen, nieuwe kansen én een frisse competitieopzet zorgen ervoor dat 2025/26 een seizoen wordt om naar uit te kijken.

✅ De komst van NAC Breda in de Eredivisie ✅ Een piramidestructuur die clubs de kans geeft om stap voor stap te groeien ✅ Meer zichtbaarheid, met o.a. een nieuw schakelprogramma op ESPN ✅ En natuurlijk de eeuwige strijd aan de top: Twente, PSV en Ajax – krijgen we opnieuw een titelrace tot de laatste speeldag?

Ondertussen timmeren ook clubs als FC Utrecht, Feyenoord en AZ aan de weg, en staat de strijd om handhaving net zo spannend op de kaart. Eén ding is zeker: dit seizoen wordt er weer geschreven aan een nieuw hoofdstuk in de geschiedenis van het Nederlandse vrouwenvoetbal. 💛🖤💙

👉 Lees hier de hele voorbeschouwing en ontdek hoe de twaalf teams ervoor staan:

Kayleigh van Dooren maakt ‘Player of the Match’ team compleet