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Nigerian international and Super Falcons striker, Ifeoma Onumonu, has officially announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a remarkable 12-year career.
The 31-year-old forward made the announcement on Saturday through a heartfelt Instagram post, expressing gratitude for her journey in the sport.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch,” she wrote.
Onumonu, who began her football journey at the age of eight in the United States, reflected on her early days playing for a youth team named Magic.
“I started playing football when I was eight years old, on a team called the Magic. We played in white, black, and green jerseys at the AYSO fields near my house,” she shared. “I remember how vast I thought the field was. I don’t remember if I played an actual position or I even passed the ball. Now, 22 years later, I feel I have reached a natural conclusion to that discovery.”
Born in California to Nigerian parents, Onumonu’s career highlights include representing Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, competing at the 2024 Olympics, and helping the Super Falcons claim their record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title earlier this year.
She earned her first national team call-up in 2021 and went on to make 32 appearances for the Super Falcons, scoring five goals.
Onumonu made history as the first Nigerian woman to score against France for the Super Falcons and became the first Nigerian female player to sign with French side Montpellier HSC in 2024.
While bidding farewell to her playing career, she hinted that her journey in football is far from over.
“This is not a goodbye to football, but a new beginning,” she said. “I am excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, using the skills and lessons learned from my time on it.”
The striker also extended appreciation to everyone who had supported her throughout her journey.
“Thank you to all the staff, teammates, coaches, doctors, fans, and my incredible friends and family for your unwavering support through the years,” she added. “Although my time as a player has come to an end, my love and devotion for this game will never waver. Thank you for everything.”
Onumonu leaves behind an inspiring legacy as one of Nigeria’s most dedicated and impactful female footballers of her generation.
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