Julie Ertz says she’s likely finished with the USWNT

The 31-year-old was emotional after her side crashed out of the World Cup

After the U.S. women’s national team crashed out of the World Cup in the last 16 against Sweden, Julie Ertz said she has likely played her last game for the national team.

Ertz played every minute of the World Cup for the USWNT, shifting back to defense and partnering Naomi Girma throughout the tournament after an injury to Becky Sauerbrunn.

The 31-year-old has only recently returned to the game after nearly two years away, taking time off after giving birth last August.

Ertz has earned 122 caps over her USWNT career, winning the World Cup in 2015 as a center back and in 2019 in the defensive midfield role she’s made her own in recent years.

Speaking to Fox Sports after the USWNT’s loss, a tearful Ertz revealed that her national team career was likely over.

“It’s tough. We’re proud of the way that we played, but we didn’t put anything in the back of the net. The penalties were tough as well. I think for me, it’s just emotional because it’s probably my last game ever being able to have the honor to wear this crest,” Ertz said.

“It’s just an emotional time,” she added. “It absolutely sucks and penalties are the worst. But it’s an honor to represent this team. I’m excited for the future of the girls.”

Asked about her USWNT legacy, Ertz responded: “Kelley [O’Hara] always says that we just rent these jerseys, and it’s our job to pass it down to the younger ones to continue that in their DNA.

“It’s been an absolute ride. I’ve learned so much about myself as a player, but even just as a person. So this team obviously competes and plays soccer but it does so much more and I’m just very grateful.”

Speaking to ESPN after the game, Ertz was more definitive: “Unfortunately this is my last time in this crest,” she said.

After making her USWNT return, Ertz signed with Angel City FC in April. It’s not clear if she plans to retire from the game altogether or if she is only calling time on her international career.

Watch Ertz’s post-game interview

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