In a heartfelt video released as part of her series Kelley on the Street, U.S. women's national team and Gotham FC defender Kelley O'Hara revealed her decision to retire from professional soccer following the conclusion of the 2024 NWSL season. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, O'Hara leaves a lasting legacy as one of the team's stalwarts.

Throughout her career, O'Hara made significant contributions to the national team. She represented the United States in four World Cups, emerging victorious in both 2015 and 2019. Additionally, she participated in three Olympics, earning a gold medal during the 2012 London Games. Playing as an outside back, O'Hara showcased her talent and dedication by appearing in every minute of the team's gold medal-winning campaign.

Before her successful international career, O'Hara had achieved recognition as a forward at Stanford University, winning the 2009 MAC Hermann Trophy. However, it was her transition to the role of outside back that solidified her place on the national team for years to come.

Injuries have posed numerous challenges for O'Hara, both during her international journey and her professional career with Gotham FC. Limited minutes and struggles with ankle and knee injuries have taken a toll on her physically and mentally. Speaking in an interview, O'Hara expressed the difficulty of navigating through injuries and the toll it can have on an athlete.

With over 160 appearances, three goals, and 21 assists, O'Hara has showcased her prowess on the international stage, serving as a role model for future generations of athletes. One of her most memorable moments came during the 2015 World Cup semifinal against Germany, where she scored her first international goal.

Not only did O'Hara leave her mark on the national team, but she also enjoyed success in her club career. Starting with the FC Gold Pride, she clinched the WPS championship in 2010. After the team folded, O'Hara continued her professional journey with the Boston Breakers before joining various NWSL teams such as Sky Blue FC, Utah Royals FC (first version), and the Washington Spirit, where she finally secured her first NWSL championship in 2021. In January 2023, O'Hara signed with Gotham FC, the reigning champions.

As O'Hara bids farewell to the sport, she expresses her gratitude for the opportunities she had to represent her country and wear the U.S. Soccer crest. The defender acknowledges the accomplishments she achieved throughout her career but emphasizes that the most precious memories are the relationships formed along the way.

As of now, no official plans have been announced by U.S. Soccer or Gotham FC regarding a retirement celebration for O'Hara. However, given the significance of her retirement, there is a possibility that her contributions will be honored, potentially during the team's July match at Red Bull Arena.

Kelley O'Hara's retirement marks the end of an era for U.S. women's soccer, leaving a void not only in the national team but the sport as a whole. Her dedication, resilience, and achievements will forever be remembered as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes.