Alex Morgan plays her final game of professional women’s soccer

After 13 minutes that felt as if an hour had passed while also feeling fleeting at the same time, Alex Morgan stopped in the middle of the field, took off her soccer boots, took off her shin guards, and for the first time in years truly allowed a well of emotions loose in her final moments as a professional soccer player. The lead up was a swirl of emotions including a tribute video, special opening ceremony, a missed penalty, a goal, and finally an eruption of chants emanating from over 25,000 fans at a packed Snapdragon stadium on one of the hottest days of the year in San Diego.

Later in her press interview Alex reflected about the moment of her missed penalty, and remarked how fitting it was that she missed her last goal scoring opportunity of her career. She drew the conclusion that it was a moment of betting on herself that she never hesitated from. The possibility of missing was far outweighed by her belief in herself which has been a hallmark of her career.

Ultimately success for Alex Morgan was and is defined by the determination of always committing her maximum effort and betting on herself that it will be enough. After 2 World Cups, a gold medal, 3 CONCACAF championships, golden boot, and a myriad of other accolades that staggers the mind when considering her profound achievements off the field as well, what we also know is that Alex Morgan’s best will always be better than what we were expecting.