Ifeoma Onumonu, the star of the Super Falcons, announced her retirement from the sport, ending a 10-year professional career in France, Nigeria, and France.
Onumonu praised her journey in a heartfelt statement that was posted on Instagram on Saturday, calling her retirement a “natural conclusion” to a lifelong discovery that began at the age of eight.
In her final years with a youth team called Magic in the United States, Onumonu wrote, “I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch with a heart full of gratitude.”
At the nearby fields where I live, we played in white, black, and green jerseys. I can recall how vast the field seemed to be. I can’t recall whether I actually passed the ball or played a particular position.
I simply wanted to run as quickly as I could and win. I simply loved playing, not much about winning or losing.
The 31-year-old said that her lifelong passion for football culminated in unforgettable moments both on national and international platforms.
She continued, “I had the profound pleasure of lifting an NWSL championship trophy, representing Nigeria at the Olympics and a World Cup, and contributing to the African Cup of Nations trophy with the Super Falcons for a historic 10th time.
The American-born forward, who made her Super Falcons senior debut in 2021, was a member of the nation’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad and also represented the Super Falcons at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
She participated in the team’s record-extending 10th continental title, the women’s African Cup of Nations triumph in July 2025.
Although she was only allowed to play for 54 minutes in the group stage’s goalless draw against Algeria, she managed to remain one of the squad’s oldest players along with veterans Francisca Ordega and Osinachi Ohale.
Following Halimatu Ayinde’s resumption due to injury, she was upgraded from the alternates list and made the 2024 Olympic roster for Nigeria.
Before moving to France to play for Montpellier HSC, Onumonu started out playing for the Boston Breakers in the National Women’s Soccer League. She later played for the Portland Thorns, Reign FC, Utah Royals, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Before rejoicing allegiance to Nigeria, where she gained respect for her intelligent movement, composure, and work ethic, she was a graduate of the California Golden Bears’ collegiate program and represented the United States at the age of 23.
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Onumonu said in her reflections that retiring from football does not put an end to her involvement.
A new beginning is needed, not a final goodbye to football.
She stated, “I’m excited to use the skills and lessons I learned while playing on it to explore opportunities off the pitch.”
Source: Channels TV
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