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Super Falcons forward Ifeoma Onumonu has announced her retirement from football, bringing to a close a professional career spanning over a decade across the United States, France, and Nigeria.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram on Saturday, the 31-year-old described her decision as a “natural conclusion” to a lifelong journey that began at the age of eight.
“With a heart full of gratitude, I say goodbye to my playing career,” Onumonu wrote, recalling her early days playing for a youth team called Magic in the United States. “All I wanted was to run fast and score goals. Winning or losing didn’t matter — I simply loved playing.”
Her passion for football guided her for 22 years, leading to numerous milestones, including lifting the NWSL Championship trophy, representing Nigeria at the Olympics and World Cup, and winning the African Women’s Cup of Nations with the Super Falcons for a record 10th time.
Born in the United States, Onumonu made her senior debut for Nigeria in 2021 and was part of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad.
She also represented the Super Falcons at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and featured in their 2025 Women’s AFCON triumph in Morocco.
She began her club career in the National Women’s Soccer League with the Boston Breakers before playing for Portland Thorns, Reign FC, Utah Royals, and NJ/NY Gotham FC. She later joined Montpellier HSC in France.
A product of the California Golden Bears collegiate programme, Onumonu represented the United States at the U-23 level before switching allegiance to Nigeria. She became known for her intelligent movement, composure, and work ethic.
Although stepping away from playing, Onumonu confirmed she plans to remain involved in football.
“This is not goodbye, but a new beginning. I’m excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, applying the lessons I’ve learnt,” she said.
She also thanked those who supported her journey: “Thank you to all the staff, teammates, coaches, doctors, fans, and my incredible friends and family. My time as a player may be over, but my love for the game will never fade.”
