“Thank You… You’re an Icon” – After 31YO Ex-World Champion’s Shock Retirement, Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Pens Emotional Message As USWNT Loses Another Star

It is always a heartbreaking moment for sports fans when a top star decides to hang up their boots and retire. This sentiment is shared by the NWSL side Angel City‘s supporters, who bid farewell to one of their top stars recently. This departure also left a void in the heart of the team’s investor, none other than Alexis Ohanian, husband of tennis legend Serena Williams.

Ohanian’s deep connection with sports led him to become an investor in Angel City FC in 2020, and he has been actively advocating for women’s sports ever since. However, Ohanian has now been forced to say goodbye to one of his star players. The player in question is none other than Julie Ertz, a former World Champion who has left an indelible mark on the sport.

Serena Williams’ husband Alexis Ohanian’s message for Julie Ertz

USWNT star Julie Ertz has officially announced her retirement at the age of just 31, leaving behind a remarkable career. Ertz was part of both the 2015 and 2019 World Cup-winning squad, and her contributions to the team cannot be understated. Representing the USWNT on 122 occasions, she experienced defeat in just five matches.

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In 2023, Ertz joined Angel City FC following a year-and-a-half break from professional soccer. This move marked a new chapter in her career. As Julie Ertz bids farewell to professional soccer, her retirement has not gone unnoticed by Alexis Ohanian. Recently, the Reddit co-founder took to his Instagram story to share a heartfelt video package of Ertz, capturing her time at Angel City.

Alongside the video, he penned an emotional message expressing his gratitude for Ertz’s time with the club. Ohanian wrote, “Julie Ertz – Thank you for your time with Angel City FC – you’re an icon”. The emotional message from Alexis Ohanian demonstrates the level of respect and admiration Ertz garnered during her career.  Julie Ertz’s retirement will undoubtedly leave a void in the Angel City FC squad. However, it is not just a big loss for Angel City FC but also for USWNT as they lose another big star.

USWNT has lost some big names

The news of Ertz’s retirement comes on the heels of another heartbreaking retirement from USWNT legend, Megan Rapinoe. Prior to the World Cup 2023, Rapinoe had announced that this would be her final competition. Unfortunately, their early elimination in the tournament marked her farewell with a heartfelt message.

These departures are truly major blows for the team, as both players were integral parts of the back-to-back World Cup-winning USWNT team. As we bid farewell to one chapter, we eagerly anticipate the next, hopeful for the exciting future that lies ahead.