Almost two decades later, USWNT’s Ali Krieger’s girlfriend, Jen Beattie, the Scottish soccer legend and NWSL’s 2024 Lauren Holiday Impact Award winner, decided to hang up her boots. The announcement came like a bittersweet breeze, stirring emotions across the soccer world. Known for her towering presence on the pitch and a heart that matched, Beattie’s choice to retire at 33 has made fans and her teammates cry and swell with pride. The great 9-year chapter at Arsenal and her final job as a reliable defender for Bay FC have made her career memorable and legendary.

Beattie had to share on Instagram the storm of emotions that she is experiencing in this significant life change. “I’m nervous, I’m excited, and all the things, but I’m ready for what’s next,” she shared, proving her journey doesn’t stop here—it’s just taking a new direction. And now, Ali Krieger couldn’t hold back her emotions either, posting a heartfelt tribute to her girlfriend that left fans swooning.

Ali Krieger lit up her Instagram stories on January 21 with a heartfelt nod to her girlfriend, Jen Beattie’s monumental life update. Jen’s post, which marked the end of her incredible soccer journey, began with a mix of emotion and reflection: “I always knew this would be the hardest decisions I’d make. The time has come, to announce I’m retiring from professional football.” In her message, Jen poured out her gratitude for her teammates, managers, support staff, and family, showing just how much this chapter of her life meant.

But it wasn’t all goodbyes—Jen also teased what’s on the horizon for her, saying, “I’m excited for what’s coming next. Being a broadcaster has already given me a way to keep connected to the game I love. I can’t wait to keep sharing stories, celebrating incredible players and I’m passionate to help the game continue to grow.” Sharing the post with all the love in the world, Ali added her own touching tribute: “You are truly one of a kind. You’ve achieved so much, broken barriers, and have touched countless lives—including mine. Congratulations, my love.. The best is yet to come!” If that doesn’t make you believe in love and new beginnings, what will?

4 different countries and 14 trophies. This is what the reflection on Jen Beattie’s rearview mirror is going to look like as she drives off into the sunset. That being said, do those numbers tell the whole story? Not really. Besides plying her trade with some of the most well-established clubs in the world, she also made a foundational contribution to Bay FC in their inaugural season in the NWSL. Although she didn’t spend a lot of time at the club, she brought her invaluable experience to its dressing room. “I’m proud that I’ll always be able to say I was there at the start of what I hope is going to be an incredible force in women’s club soccer,” she said, reflecting on her time in the club.

Moreover, her contributions to the Bay Area went beyond soccer. Being a cancer survivor herself, she extended her support to the Bay Area breast cancer community for which she was bestowed with the 2024 Lauren Holiday Impact Award. No wonder her partner is so proud of her. Speaking of her partner, what’s the power couple’s journey been like so far?

Ali Krieger and Jen Beattie reveal their relationship!

In an episode of the She Pivots podcast back in July 2024, Ali Krieger gave a subtle clue about her new love interest. She revealed that she was dating a “wonderful person,” but kept the name a secret. At that point, my guess was as good as yours. She’d taken her time healing after her breakup with Ashlyn Harris in September 2023. Thankfully, she came out of the period with a fresh perspective. “I think, now, eight, nine months down the road has given me time to grieve, and to sort through all those feelings,” she said.

Cut to November, she made things official with Jen Beattie, giving everyone a peek into their blossoming romance on Instagram. This couple had some real spark, and just before the holiday season, they were caught on camera clinking glasses of red wine. Jen shared a photo of the two of them laughing, with the caption, “Thankful for you. Happy Thanksgiving my love @alikrieger ❤️.” Ali, feeling all the love, replied, “You have no idea.. ❤️❤️❤️.” Now, with Jen Beattie ready to retire and possibly join Ali as a broadcaster, it’s like they have formed this type of team that we never knew we wanted. How’s that for a fresh, new beginning?