Watching a legend of the game break down in tears is never a fun sight to witness. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what went down at Alex Morgan‘s last press conference ahead of her retirement game. As her incredible USWNT career comes to an end, the emotions are definitely running high. And what makes this even more bittersweet, is the fairy tale ending that Morgan didn’t get after being dropped from USWNT’s roster for the Paris Olympics by Emma Hayes.

It was no doubt a moment of shock when the Olympic roster list was released and Alex Morgan’s name was nowhere to be found. The 35-year-old has always said that she felt “disappointed” but would support the team no matter what. But now, as she’s about to wrap up her career, those feelings become too much to hold back during that moment.

Talking about this year being her last made her super emotional, especially when reflecting on all the struggles and Olympic snub. The USWNT legend shared, “As much as this year has been difficult mentally and physically with injuries, being left off an important roster, it’s all part of the character that I’ve built to respond to things and to overcome adversity.”

Despite it all, Alex Morgan showed how strong she is and reminded everyone that facing these challenges isn’t new territory for her. She mentioned how leaning on family and friends has helped her get through those rough patches.

“I’m so grateful that I have such clarity in the decision I made at the start of this year to retire at the end of the season,” added the San Diego Wave star. “Yes, it’s cut short, but it was a year that I am so grateful for, regardless of all the ups and downs.” Yes, you heard her right for Alex Morgan her retirement came sooner than she expected. Here’s the scoop!

Alex Morgan talks about her unexpected retirement decision

Alex Morgan’s retirement has definitely left a lot of us scratching our heads. Why would she step away in the middle of an NWSL season instead of holding out for one last shot at a trophy? Turns out, she was just as surprised by it all! In her press conference, she said, “To be honest, I wasn’t expecting to finish my career mid-season.” She even shared how at the start of this year she had plans of finishing the entire season before retiring. So what changed?

Well, the reason is related to her second pregnancy! Along with announcing her retirement, the 2x World Cup winner revealed that she’s expecting baby number two. She mentioned that getting this news only happened a few weeks ago and was an unexpected surprise.

So yes, this unexpected pregnancy is what’s behind her decision to retire mid-season. But despite all that upheaval, Alex Morgan is super happy about welcoming another little one into the family. And as fans, we can only send our best wishes and remember all the incredible things she’s done for women’s soccer!