In a fitting farewell to a stellar career, Julie Ertz donned the captain’s armband one last time, leading the United States to a resounding 3-0 victory over South Africa in an emotional friendly.
The match at Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium not only celebrated her remarkable journey but also marked the end of an era for the soccer legend.
The American team, under interim manager Twila Kilgore, dominated the opening half-hour, showcasing their prowess.
Lynn Williams opened the scoring, heading the ball into the net following a corner kick, while Trinity Rodman swiftly added another goal just 60 seconds later, courtesy of a lightning-fast counter-attack.
However, the most poignant moment of the evening arrived when Julie Ertz, in her 123rd appearance for the national team, handed over the captaincy to Lindsay Horan, embraced her teammates, and left the field in tears, making way for substitute Andi Sullivan.
Lynn Williams continued to shine with another close-range finish, securing her second goal of the half and propelling the U.S. to a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
The second half, in contrast to the electrifying first, unfolded at a slower pace, witnessing the U.S. debut of hometown player Mary Vignola and the introduction of Angel City teenager Alyssa Thompson, who played alongside Ertz at the World Cup last summer. However, the scoreline remained unchanged.
Touching tribute from Zach Ertz and the Cardinals
It was a memorable night for Julie Ertz, who announced her retirement last month after a remarkable 10-year career.
Her husband, Zach Ertz, tight end for the Arizona Cardinals, shared a heartfelt message ahead of her final game.
In a touching video posted by the Cardinals, Zach praised his wife’s dedication, commitment, passion, and courage, saying:
“Julie, you’ve given your everything to this game. You won at the highest levels; and have done it with grace, commitment, passion, and courage. Madden and I could not be more proud of what you’ve done and more importantly, who you are. I think everyone has seen your career and you’ve reached the most amazing highs of your sport. Everyone sees the Players of the Year, the World Cup medals, but I’ve seen the grind that you’ve put in and the adversity you’ve faced. I’m just so proud to be your husband, to be your partner during this whole time. I hope you take this all in and truly can walk away knowing you’ve given each and every part of your being, your soul, to be the best version of yourself, the best teammate you could be, and that you have no regrets when you walk away from this thing. We’re so proud of you and we love you.”
Julie wants to focus on her family
Julie Ertz’s decision to retire allows her to spend more quality time with her family, including their one-year-old son, Madden.
During a the pregame press conference Ertz talked extensively about her decision saying “I think when I get to a point to be able to choose myself, when I could step away… I do feel I could step away and be like, ‘It’s not because Momma can’t play. Momma can play. She has just adapted [her] priorities. And I think that just comes with age and just I feel like I’ve been so blessed to have the career that I’ve had.”
The U.S. Women’s National Team will take on South Africa once again on Sunday at Soldier Field in Chicago, marking another poignant moment as they bid farewell to yet another retiring legend, Megan Rapinoe.