Super Falcons forward, Ifeoma Onumonu has retired from professional football.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement shared on Instagram on Saturday, the 31-year-old described her decision as a natural conclusion to a journey that began at age eight.
She wrote, “It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch”, recalling her earliest days with a local youth team in the United States.
Onumonu reflected on her passion for the game, which lasted 22 years, leading her to memorable achievements at both club and international levels.
She added, “I had the profound pleasure of lifting an NWSL championship trophy, representing Nigeria at the Olympics and a World Cup, and helping to lift the African Cup of Nations trophy with the Super Falcons for a historic 10th time.”
Though stepping away from the pitch, Onumonu stressed that her connection to football remains. She said, “This is not a goodbye to football, but a new beginning.”
“I am excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, using the skills and lessons learned from my time on it.” The footballer further thanked teammates, coaches, staff, fans, and family for their support.
Born in the United States, Onumonu made her senior debut for Nigeria in 2021 and went on to feature at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
She was also part of the Super Falcons squad that clinched their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco in July 2025.
Her club career began in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) with Boston Breakers, before stints with Portland Thorns, Reign FC, Utah Royals, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
She later moved to France to play for Montpellier HSC. A product of the California Golden Bears collegiate system, she represented the U.S. at U-23 level before switching allegiance to Nigeria.
