After a long and storied soccer (football) career, Ali Riley–Angel City Football Club’s (ACFC) first-ever captain, New Zealand National Team star, and Stanford University alumna–has announced she will call it a career at the end of National Women’s Soccer League’s (NWSL) season.
Riley, 37, has played for almost two decades, appearing in five World Cups, and four Olympic Games. Also, she has won a Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) championship with the now-defunct FC Gold Pride in 2010, and earned the Rookie of the Year award that same season.
Next, Riley suited up for the no-longer existing Western New York Flash and claimed Defender of the Year honor as the Flash swept both the league season title and then claimed the 2011 WPS Championship.
Plus, she has won several league titles in Sweden with FC Rosengård (2012-2018), among other team and individual accolades.
But this year marked a fierce comeback for Riley, who dealt with a chronic nerve injury that pushed her to the sidelines since the start of the Paris Olympics in July 2024.
She, however, hit the pitch once again for ACFC in August, reaching a personal and satisfying accomplishment for herself.
Riley has suited up for five matches (three starts) with the team so far this campaign.
“Getting myself back on the field was my singular goal after my injury last year, and I am so proud to have achieved that,” Riley said in a press release. “Being on the pitch every day, supporting my teammates, pushing my teammates, showing up in the way I know I can has been amazing.
“Now, as I reflect on what this game has given me these past three decades, since I started in the Palisades here in LA, I know that I have truly given my all, both physically and emotionally,” she continued. “As a player, I strived to be the best teammate, a positive influence in the locker room, and compete on the field every day. For my entire career, I never took a day when I got to play soccer for granted.”
ACFC CEO and Co-Founder Julie Uhrman praised Riley for the intangibles she brought to the table to the club, the city of Los Angeles, and herself alike.
“Ali Riley is Angel City. Her heart, grit, and unwavering commitment to lifting everyone around her have shaped the culture of this club,” Julie Uhrman said. “Her impact on our team, our city, the global game and on me, personally, is immeasurable. Ali has shown us that leadership goes far beyond the pitch; it’s in how you care for others, how you show up, and how you lead every single day.
“Her love of the game, for Angel City, and for the community is undeniable, she added. “And while she may no longer be on the pitch, she will never be far from Angel City. We all need more Ali Rileys in our lives.”
ACFC’s last game will be on Sunday, November 2nd against host Chicago Stars FC, with starting time yet TBD.
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Photo: Angel City Football Club.
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