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Julie Ertz’s Unrivaled Legacy: A Farewell that Leaves a Void in Soccer

By Arthur Fernandes

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 6: Julie Ertz of USA during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between Winner Group G and Runner Up Group E at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium on August 6, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 6: Julie Ertz of USA during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between Winner Group G and Runner Up Group E at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium on August 6, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images) /
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Julie Ertz, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, has officially announced her retirement from professional soccer. Her departure from the playing fields leaves behind a career filled with accomplishments and a legacy that transcends the boundaries of the sport.

Ertz, a fan favorite, earned the respect of her teammates and fans alike with her tireless dedication, undeniable talent, and unmatched work ethic. She wasn’t just an exceptional player; she was also a leader both on and off the field.

Her journey on the international stage began in 2013, and over a decade, she helped the U.S. achieve an impressive record of 100 wins, 17 draws, and only 5 losses in 122 matches. In World Cups, Ertz was a constant presence, contributing to 13 wins and 4 draws, keeping her team undefeated in 11 matches. Her 20 goals scored, many of them as a defender, attest to her exceptional versatility and talent.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – 2023/08/06: Julie Ertz of USA seen in action during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 match between Sweden and USA at Stadium Australia. Final score; Sweden 0:0 USA.Penalties; 5:4. (Photo by Patricia Pérez Ferraro/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – 2023/08/06: Julie Ertz of USA seen in action during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 match between Sweden and USA at Stadium Australia. Final score; Sweden 0:0 USA.Penalties; 5:4. (Photo by Patricia Pérez Ferraro/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) /

In addition to her individual achievements, Ertz was also a crucial part of the U.S.’s consecutive triumphs in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015 and 2019. Her transition from central defender to defensive midfielder was a testament to her adaptability and her ability to elevate her game with each challenge.

However, her influence wasn’t limited to international competitions. At the club level, she made history with the Chicago Red Stars and more recently with Angel City FC. Her selection as the NWSL Rookie of the Year in 2014 attested to her immediate impact on the domestic scene.

Julie Ertz is more than just an extraordinary soccer player; she’s an inspiration to young athletes around the world. Her positive attitude, her passion for the sport, and her commitment to the community are worthy of admiration. Alongside her husband, NFL player Zach Ertz, she founded the Ertz Family Foundation, an organization that seeks to empower people through faith, sports, and education. Her philanthropic work demonstrates her desire to make a difference in the world, far beyond the four lines of the soccer field.

Julie Ertz’s farewell leaves a void in soccer that will be hard to fill. Her influence transcends the sport, and her contribution to the advancement of women’s soccer and society as a whole is immeasurable. As she steps into a new phase of her life, the sports world expresses its gratitude and pays tribute to a true legend. Julie Ertz, you will be forever remembered as one of the greatest players of all time. Thank you for everything.

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