Merritt Mathias: A Journey Through the NWSL
Having made history by playing in the first-ever National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) match in 2013, Merritt Mathias has announced that the 2023 season will be her final chapter as a professional soccer player. The right-back for Angel City FC took to social media to share her decision, marking the end of a remarkable career filled with achievements, challenges, and contributions to the sport.
A Career of Milestones
Mathias, hailing from Alabama, has left an indelible mark on the NWSL. Throughout her career, she has won three NWSL Shields, solidifying her status as a league legend. Her contributions extend beyond the pitch; she has played a pivotal role in the NWSL Players Association, advocating for player rights and welfare. Under her influence, the union has successfully negotiated historic collective bargaining agreements, ensuring better safety and financial support for players.
Despite only earning a single cap for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), Mathias’s impact at the club level has been profound. Her time with teams like FC Kansas City, Seattle Reign, North Carolina Courage, and Angel City has seen her accumulate an impressive trophy cabinet, including three NWSL Championships—two with North Carolina and one with Seattle.
The Challenge of Injuries
Mathias’s journey has not been without its hurdles. Shortly after signing with Angel City in 2023, she suffered a significant knee injury that sidelined her for much of the season. The injury required two surgeries, and her struggles were compounded by a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. These challenges took a mental toll on Mathias, who candidly shared her feelings about the connection between her worth and her performance on the field.
In an interview with The Sporting Tribune, she expressed the difficulty of reconciling her identity with her role as an athlete. "It’s a really hard relationship to carry when it feels so interconnected that your worth is tied to a game," she said. Mathias emphasized the importance of self-acceptance, stating, "I know I am all these things. I’m true to myself. I’m authentic."
A Legacy of Resilience
As she prepares to hang up her boots, Mathias leaves behind a legacy that transcends statistics and trophies. By the time she plays her final match in October, she will have made just under 200 regular-season appearances in the NWSL. Her journey reflects resilience and determination, qualities that have inspired many within the soccer community.
In her reflections, Mathias shared her growth throughout her career, stating, "I’ve worked really hard on allowing this thing that I love to not control so much of my life." This statement encapsulates her journey—a journey marked by passion, struggle, and ultimately, self-discovery.
A Call to Fans
In her retirement announcement, Mathias posted a black-and-white image of herself acknowledging her fans, accompanied by a humorous yet poignant caption: "I came, I saw, I f—ed s— up." This candidness resonates with her followers, showcasing her authentic personality. She urged fans to attend her retirement match, a fitting farewell to a player who has given so much to the sport.
As Merritt Mathias steps away from professional soccer, her contributions to the NWSL and the broader landscape of women’s sports will be remembered. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of advocacy, and the enduring spirit of athletes who strive to make a difference both on and off the field.