Super Falcons winger Onumonu retires from active football
By Uzor Odigbo
Super Falcons forward Ifeoma Onumonu announces retirement from football.
The US-based footballer, while stepping away from the pitch, noted that her relationship with football is far from over.
“This is not a goodbye to football, but a new beginning. I am excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, using the skills and lessons learned from my time on it.
“Thank you to all the staff, teammates, coaches, doctors, fans, and my incredible friends and family for your unwavering support through the years. Although my time as a player has come to an end, my love and devotion for this game will never waver. Thank you for everything.
“All I wanted to do was run as fast as I could and score. I didn’t much care about winning or losing; I just loved playing. I loved discovering what my body could do and what I could do with the ball.”
Onumonu, who was part of Nigeria’s record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) triumph, said she felt fulfilled with what she achieved in the game.
“Now, 22 years later, I feel I have reached a natural conclusion to that discovery. It has been an incredible journey. I had the profound pleasure of lifting an NWSL championship trophy, representing Nigeria at the Olympics and a World Cup, and helping to lift the African Cup of Nations trophy with the Super Falcons for a historic 10th time.
Born in the United States, Onumonu began representing Nigeria in 2021 and went on to feature for the Super Falcons at the Olympics, Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
At club level, she played for French side Montpellier HSC and several National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams, including Utah Royals, NJ/NY Gotham FC, Reign FC, Portland Thorns FC, and Boston Breakers. She also played college football for the California Golden Bears.
