Alex Morgan, a trailblazer in U.S. women’s soccer, announced her retirement in an emotional video on September 5, 2024. Fighting back tears, the two-time World Cup winner shared the news that has left fans stunned. “I’m gonna get to the point quickly: I’m retiring.”

Reflecting on her decision, she added, “I have so much clarity about this decision, and I am so happy to be able to finally tell you.” Morgan revealed that her choice wasn’t made lightly, admitting it had been a long journey to this moment. “At the beginning of 2024, I felt in my heart and soul that this was the last season that I would play soccer.”

Morgan has been a powerful figure in soccer for over a decade, inspiring countless fans with her performances on the field and her relentless advocacy for women’s sports off it.

“Soccer has been a part of me for 30 years and it was one of the first things that I ever loved,” she said. “I gave everything to this sport, and what I got in return was more than I could have ever dreamed of.”

Through her career, Morgan became known not only for her athleticism but also for her tenacity in pushing for greater recognition and investment in women’s sports. “Success for me is defined by never giving up and giving your all,” she continued. “And I did just that.”

A Joyous New Chapter in Alex Morgan’s Life

As Morgan bid farewell to her career, she shared the reason behind her retirement decision. “Charlie came up to me the other day and said that when she grows up, she wants to be a soccer player. And it just made me, like, immensely proud,” Morgan shared, speaking about her four-year-old daughter.

The Olympic gold medalist expressed pride not because she wants her daughter to follow in her footsteps but because the progress made in women’s sports is visible even to the youngest fans.

The announcement that came right after was a heartwarming highlight in Morgan’s message, transforming initial sadness into a celebration of what lies ahead. “This is not the retirement video I expected when I initially thought I was going to do this because Charlie’s going to be a big sister,” Morgan said. “I am pregnant. And as unexpected as this came, we are so overjoyed.”

Morgan also credited her family for their unwavering support. “To me, family means everything,” she reflected. “I wouldn’t be here without my husband and my family uplifting and motivating and encouraging and supporting me and sacrificing for me for the last 15 years as a professional athlete.”

The 35-year-old athlete’s final game with the San Diego Wave was set for Sunday, September 8, 2024. Concluding her video message, Morgan thanked her fans and the soccer fraternity for always supporting her. She mentioned, “I am so shaped into me because of you, because of soccer, and I am forever grateful.”

Despite her many achievements, Morgan has faced criticism, particularly concerning her personal life. Back in December 2016, Morgan shared a sweet moment with her husband, Servando Carrasco, at a soccer match, but the photo sparked harsh online criticism.

Some users were quick to judge their relationship, questioning Morgan’s suitability as Carrasco’s partner. One comment read, “Carrasco is so handsome. Morgan is not suitable for him,” while another echoed, “Serva is a heartthrob. She’s not suitable for him.” A third user added, “He’s so handsome. She should be grateful for such a husband.”

However, Morgan’s husband has consistently stood by her, both personally and professionally. In a candid interview from 2019, Carrasco reflected on his wife’s journey from a promising young talent to an international soccer icon.

“She was very raw,” he recalled, describing her early days when she was known for her speed and striking ability. Carrasco admired how Morgan continually worked to enhance her skills, adding tactical awareness and finesse to her game. “She’s not just a finisher now. She’s always looking for a challenge.”

Carrasco also spoke about a defining moment in Morgan’s career when she scored a pivotal goal that pushed her team into the finals. “That was the moment that kind of propelled her into that stardom mode,” he explained. Despite the fame and attention, Carrasco noted that Morgan has always stayed true to who she is, a quality he finds incredible.

“She worked incredibly hard to be where she is, so clearly I’m going to celebrate her,” Carrasco, 36, proudly stated. He emphasized that his pride in Morgan goes beyond her soccer accomplishments; it’s her character and influence that stand out to him. “Of course, I’m proud of her, there’s no doubt about it. When my nieces talk to her and they look up to her, that’s as good as it gets.”

How Did Alex Morgan Meet Her Husband?

Alex Morgan and Carrasco’s relationship began over a decade ago when they met as freshmen at the University of California, Berkeley, in 2007. The two bonded over their shared love of soccer, with both pursuing successful collegiate careers. Their friendship quickly blossomed into a romance, leading to a relationship that would stand the test of time.

Carrasco has proven his skills extend beyond the soccer field and into fatherhood. According to Morgan, the 35-year-old professional soccer player’s proposal was as impressive as his on-field performance.

The heartfelt and memorable moment took place at an annual fireworks show in Manhattan Beach, California. Recounting the special moment, Morgan said, “He was planning the proposal for that night and asked me to stand up, and then asked me to marry him.”

Following the proposal, the couple celebrated with family and friends, riding their beach cruisers to Morgan’s father’s house to toast with champagne.

On New Year’s Eve 2014, Morgan and Carrasco tied the knot in a stunning ceremony at Rancho Dos Pueblos in Santa Barbara, California, surrounded by 180 guests.

Morgan wore a breathtaking gown by Berta Bridal for the ceremony before changing into a custom Amsale dress for the reception. Carrasco looked equally dapper in an Armani tuxedo. The festivities included a balloon drop at midnight, signature cocktails, and a Mexican-American dinner honoring Carrasco’s heritage.

Who is Alex Morgan’s Husband?

Throughout their relationship, Morgan and Carrasco have supported each other both on and off the field. Carrasco, a professional soccer player like Morgan, has had a distinguished career as a technically skilled defensive midfielder, known for his expansive passing range.

He played four years at Berkeley, earning accolades such as First Team All-Pac-10 honoree and Third Team All-America. Selected 27th overall in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, Carrasco has since played for several Major League Soccer teams, bringing depth and experience to every squad he joins.

In addition to his soccer career, Carrasco is a devoted father to the couple’s daughter, Charlie. Morgan often shares glimpses of their family life on social media, highlighting Carrasco’s loving nature.

In a Father’s Day post from June 2023, Morgan wrote, “Happy Father’s Day to the best dad to our girl and the best teammate in life I could ask for. We love you!”

Accompanying the heartfelt message was a photo of Carrasco with Charlie on a golf course, both smiling brightly, showcasing the close bond they share. The picture captures Carrasco kneeling next to Charlie, who is holding a mini golf club, embodying his role as a hands-on, supportive father.

Despite both being professional athletes, Morgan and Carrasco strive to keep soccer from dominating their personal lives. Carrasco shared that they avoid critiquing each other’s performances, recognizing that they already receive enough feedback from coaches and peers.

“I’m not going to go out of my way to tell her that she played poorly,” he explained. “And if she did the same thing for me, well, that stuff wouldn’t be good for our relationship.”

The couple prefers to enjoy their time together as normal people, engaging in hobbies and activities that have nothing to do with soccer, which helps maintain balance in their relationship.

Carrasco noted, “If she wants to talk about it, we’ll talk about it. But soccer’s such a huge part of our life, and when we’re off the field, we’re normal people.” Their relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding, and a deep bond that extends beyond the soccer pitch.

Carrasco’s admiration for Morgan goes beyond her athletic achievements; he sees her as an inspirational figure and a loving partner. “I’m not competing with her. I love her for the person she is.”

Morgan’s journey, both as a soccer legend and as a devoted wife and mother, highlights the complexities of living in the public eye.

Despite facing criticism, Morgan’s steadfast partnership with