At Snapdragon Stadium, the passion for Alex Morgan overflowed last Sunday. The stands were filled with jerseys bearing the iconic number 13, a symbol that has transcended eras, from the colors of the U.S. national team to the San Diego Wave’s insignia.However, the number 13 that everyone expected to see in action was not worn by anyone, as the Wave decided to immortalize it, retiring it forever.After the team’s 3-0 defeat to the Houston Dash, the Wave honored the USWNT legend with a framed jersey and a moving ceremony.
“I will try to keep my composure,” Morgan said, fighting back tears. “Thank you for so many moments in my career. Three years may seem like a short time, but honestly, these three years have been the most transformative. From building the club from scratch, to making the playoffs, winning the Shield in the second season and winning the Challenge Cup in the third season, and breaking the NWSL attendance record.
Alex MorganThe fans, present at every moment, were fundamental to this achievement, and Morgan dedicated words of gratitude to them. She also addressed the young prospects present in the stadium, highlighting how football is now a possibility for them, something that did not exist when she was a child.Approximately one hundred family members and friends of Morgan, including former teammates like Tobin Heath, were present at the ceremony.
Seeing that my time here in San Diego had such an impact, to the point that the number 13 was retired, fills me with emotion. There was a lot of sweat, tears, and ups and downs with that number. Being able to see it now at the top and share it with my family, that my children know that I was part of this team, from the beginning, and that it is recorded in history forever, will be a great story for them too.
Alex Morgan
Alex Morgan se toma una selfie con los fanáticos del San Diego Wave la noche en que el equipo retiró su camiseta.To celebrate this unique moment, the Wave distributed pink ribbons, a style that Morgan popularized, and a giant structure with the number 13, decorated with thank you messages from the fans.In 2023, Morgan announced her retirement after nearly 15 years of career, and also revealed her second pregnancy. In May, she acquired a stake in the San Diego Wave.Morgan, a two-time world champion and Olympic champion, scored 123 goals at the international level, placing in the top 5 in USWNT history.During his career, Morgan played for seven professional clubs on two continents, as well as several semi-professional teams. He won championships in two professional leagues in the United States and a UEFA Champions League title.
