Alex Morgan, a name synonymous with women’s soccer excellence, recently announced her retirement, marking the end of an era. For fans and aspiring players alike, the question “Who Does Alex Morgan Play For?” has echoed throughout her illustrious career. While she concluded her professional journey with San Diego Wave FC, Morgan’s path includes a string of prestigious teams both in the United States and Europe. Let’s delve into the teams that have been home to this iconic forward, tracing her remarkable trajectory in the world of soccer.
San Diego Wave FC: Her Final Chapter
Alex Morgan’s final professional stint was with San Diego Wave FC, a team she joined on July 24, 2022. It was with Wave FC that she played her last game on September 8th at Snapdragon Stadium, marking the end of her celebrated career. In her time with San Diego, Morgan demonstrated her enduring talent, making 50 appearances and scoring 23 goals in NWSL action. Her immediate impact was undeniable, leading the team in scoring in 2022 with 16 goals and earning the NWSL Golden Boot in the club’s inaugural season. As captain, she propelled San Diego Wave to unprecedented success, becoming the first expansion team in league history to reach the playoffs in their very first season. The following year, in 2023, Morgan led the team to their first trophy, the NWSL Shield, solidifying her legacy with the club. She leaves San Diego Wave as the all-time leader in goals (28) and assists (11), a testament to her lasting contribution.
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Alt text: Alex Morgan joyfully celebrates a goal while playing for San Diego Wave FC, surrounded by her teammates in their home stadium.
Orlando Pride: A Significant NWSL Stint
Before her move to the West Coast, Orlando Pride was a significant chapter in Alex Morgan’s NWSL career. She initially joined the expansion side in October 2015 and played multiple stints with the club. During her time in Orlando, Morgan showcased her consistent scoring ability, netting 23 goals in 66 appearances (64 starts). Her presence and experience were invaluable to the Pride, making her a fan favorite and a key player in the team’s development.
Olympique Lyonnais: European Success
Venturing beyond the NWSL, Alex Morgan briefly played for Olympique Lyonnais in 2017, experiencing European soccer at its highest level. This short but impactful period saw her contribute to the team’s success in winning both the UEFA Women’s Champions League and the French Cup. Playing alongside some of the best international talent, Morgan added European silverware to her already impressive trophy cabinet, demonstrating her adaptability and skill on a global stage.
Alt text: Action shot of Alex Morgan competing for the ball in a UEFA Women’s Champions League game while representing Olympique Lyonnais.
Portland Thorns FC: Inaugural NWSL Champion
As one of the original allocated players in the NWSL in 2013, Alex Morgan joined Portland Thorns FC. This move proved to be immediately successful as she led the team in scoring and played a crucial role in securing the inaugural NWSL Championship title for the Thorns. Her time in Portland marked the beginning of the NWSL era and solidified her status as a leading figure in American club soccer.
Western New York Flash: The Start of Her Professional Journey
Alex Morgan’s professional career began with Western New York Flash, who selected her as the number one overall pick in the 2011 WPS Draft. In her debut professional season, Morgan achieved instant success, contributing to the team’s WPS Championship victory. This early triumph set the stage for her remarkable career and highlighted her potential from the very beginning.
US Women’s National Team: An International Icon
Beyond her club career, Alex Morgan is most prominently known for her legendary contributions to the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). Since 2010, she has been a cornerstone of the team, amassing 224 appearances and scoring 123 goals, ranking fifth-most in USWNT history. Her international accolades include four FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances, winning titles in 2015 and 2019. She also secured Olympic gold (2012) and bronze (2020) medals, showcasing her consistent excellence on the world’s biggest stages. Morgan’s international career is filled with iconic moments, solidifying her place as a true icon of the sport and a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Alt text: Alex Morgan, wearing the USWNT jersey, expresses elation after scoring a goal in a pivotal World Cup match.
A Legacy Across Teams
From her early days with Western New York Flash to her final games with San Diego Wave FC, Alex Morgan’s journey has spanned across several distinguished teams. Whether it was lifting trophies in Portland and Lyon, leading the line for Orlando Pride, or becoming a San Diego Wave legend, her impact has been profound and memorable. And of course, her unparalleled achievements with the USWNT have cemented her status as one of the greatest to ever play the game. As she steps into retirement, her legacy will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations both on and off the field, no matter which jersey she wore.
