Merritt Mathias: A Journey Through the NWSL and Beyond
Having made history by playing in the first-ever National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) match in 2013, Merritt Mathias has announced that she will retire from professional soccer at the end of this season. The right-back for Angel City FC shared her decision on social media, marking the end of a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the sport. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Mathias reflected on her journey with a black-and-white image of herself acknowledging fans, accompanied by the candid caption: "I came, I saw, I f—ed s— up." She also encouraged fans to attend her retirement match in October, signaling a bittersweet farewell to the game she loves.
A Legacy of Success
Merritt Mathias, hailing from Alabama, has built a legacy that extends beyond her impressive trophy collection. Throughout her career, she has won three NWSL Shields, solidifying her status as a legend in the league. Her contributions to the NWSL Players Association, the players’ union, have been equally significant. Mathias played a crucial role in negotiating historic collective bargaining agreements that improved player safety and financial support within the league. This advocacy work has not only benefited her fellow players but has also helped elevate the overall standard of women’s soccer in the United States.
While Mathias may have only made a single appearance for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), her impact at the club level has been profound. She has represented several teams, including Kansas City, Seattle Reign, North Carolina Courage, and most recently, Angel City FC. Her time with these clubs has seen her lift the NWSL Championship three times—twice with North Carolina and once with Seattle—adding to her impressive resume.
The Struggles of Injury and Health
Mathias’s journey has not been without its challenges. After signing with Angel City in 2023, she faced a significant setback when she suffered a devastating knee injury. This injury required two surgeries, which kept her sidelined and prevented her from making an immediate impact at her new club. As if that weren’t enough, Mathias was later diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, further complicating her return to the field.
In an interview with The Sporting Tribune, Mathias opened up about the mental toll of being unable to play. She expressed the difficulty of separating her self-worth from her performance on the field, stating, "It’s a really hard relationship to carry when it feels so interconnected that your worth is tied to a game." This candid reflection highlights the emotional challenges athletes often face, especially when injuries disrupt their careers.
Embracing Authenticity and Self-Worth
Despite the struggles, Mathias has worked hard to redefine her relationship with soccer. She emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity, stating, "I know I am all these things. I’m true to myself. I’m authentic. I stand in this space, and I trust that I’m going to be okay, no matter what happens, whether I step on the field again or if I don’t." This mindset showcases her resilience and commitment to personal growth, even in the face of adversity.
As she prepares for her final season, Mathias is set to leave the sport with just under 200 NWSL regular-season appearances to her name. Her journey has been one of hard work and determination, and she reflects on her decision to retire with a sense of pride and freedom. "I’ve worked really hard on allowing this thing that I love to not control so much of my life," she shared. "It’s definitely been an extended process to reach the decision that I have, and feel comfortable in that decision, and feel very free and very proud of it."
A Lasting Impact on American Soccer
Merritt Mathias’s retirement marks the end of an era for both her and the NWSL. Her contributions to the league, both on and off the field, have helped shape the landscape of women’s soccer in America. As fans prepare to celebrate her career during her retirement match, they will undoubtedly reflect on the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy defined by success, resilience, and a commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of female athletes.