Becky Sauerbrunn has decided to retire at 39, marking an important chapter of American soccer by leaving an indelible mark behind on the pitch. Her decision does not come as an unexpected shock but more as part of a strategic plan to leave an indelible legacy behind her.
Sauerbrunn spoke about her final year on The Women’s Game podcast with Sam Mewis and was nostalgic to recall its events: lifting the W Gold Cup trophy alongside the USWNT and following Portland into playoff contention, an experience which gave her pride as she saw them through. In particular she pointed to an encounter against Gotham where she felt that her hard work in giving this sport she loved came full circle for her and was the ideal end point to a fulfilling career in women’s volleyball.
Sauerbrunn revealed her wish for an unassuming retirement: an intimate experience where timing and manner of announcement align with wishes – concluding both season and playoffs without drama or surprises.
Sauerbrunn set out to find an opportunity that would enable her to gracefully close out her playing days on her terms, with retirement becoming reality in late 2014. As the season concluded, Sauerbrunn realized it had come. With no strings attached – including receiving payment – Sauerbrunn welcomed this chance at retiring on her terms and she took full advantage.