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'You've given your everything': Julie Ertz's husband posts heartfelt message after USWNT legend retires

Julie bid farewell to her illustrious career with USWNT after a triumphant 3-0 victory against South Africa

MESA, ARIZONA: Zach Ertz, an Arizona Cardinals tight end, expressed his heartfelt sentiments as his wife Julie Ertz bid farewell to her illustrious career with the US Women's National Team (USWNT) after a triumphant 3-0 victory against South Africa on Thursday, September 21. 

Before the two-time Women's World Cup winner and a two-time Olympian's last match with the USWNT, the NFL player shared a touching video stating, "Julie, you’ve given your everything to this game."

Zach Ertz's heartfelt farewell message to Julie Ertz

"You’ve won at the highest levels and have done it with grace, commitment, passion and courage. Madden and I couldn’t be more proud of what you’ve done, and more important, who you are," Ertz said.

"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. I’ve seen the grind you’ve put in, the adversities 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 from this game knowing you’ve given each and every part of your being, your soul, to be the best version of yourself. To be the best teammate you can be, and you have no regrets when you walk away from this thing. We’re so proud of you, and we love you," he concluded. 

Why did Julia Ertz retire?

This game represented her 123rd and ultimate outing with the USWNT. Her retirement was disclosed just last month, following a disappointing World Cup campaign for the US.

Her decision to retire is driven by a desire to dedicate more time to her family, including her one-year-old son Madden, whom she shares with Zach.

Julie, reflecting on her final match, emphasized that it was about more than just her performance on the field.

"This was so much more than (me scoring)," said Julie, who skied one header and had another go straight at the South African goalkeeper.

"It was closure. It was love for the game. It was being there with my teammates one last time and my family, who’s been there since day one. And it was just saying bye to a dream." She added, “Well, no. I got to live my dream. But it was saying bye to the career I had,” as per USA Today.

Julie Ertz's impressive match statistics

Julie had an outstanding international soccer career spanning 10 years. Here are some key match statistics:

Total Matches Played: 123

Matches Lost: 5

Goals Scored: 20

FIFA World Cup Appearances: 2 (2015 and 2019)

FIFA World Cup Matches Played: 17

FIFA World Cup Titles: 2 (2015 and 2019)

Julie played a pivotal role in the United States Women's National Team's success, helping them secure consecutive FIFA World Cup championships in 2015 and 2019.