They say, “Every ending is a new beginning,” but for Alyssa Naeher, stepping away from the USWNT was as much about clarity as it was about courage. In a candid moment on The Women’s Game podcast, Alyssa Naeher shared how an honest conversation with USWNT coach Emma Hayes made her decision to retire from international soccer not only easier but also deeply affirming.

Alyssa Naeher, long-time starting goalkeeper for the U.S. women's national team, announced her retirement from international play on Monday. The USWNT is in Europe for a pair of friendlies, and the matches will serve as Naeher's final games.

The 36-year-old backstopped the 2019 World Cup and 2024 Olympic champions, with 68 shutouts in 113 appearances. She'll suit up for her country for the last time in the Americans' upcoming games.