The next FIFA World Cup for USA women's national team could look a little different.
Aside from Megan Rapinoe, Julie Ertz is out for the next international games after hinting at retirement shortly after their defeat at the hands of Sweden.
The two-time reigning world champions fell short during a heart-stopping penalty shootout to bow out of the competition.
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Ertz felt emotional after the loss because it could be her last game for the national team.
"It's an honor to represent this team, and I'm excited for the future of these girls."
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) August 6, 2023
The @USWNT legend Julie Ertz speaks with @JennyTaft after the United States' Round of 16 match 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Qc9G5jPTXy
"For me, it's just emotional because it was probably my last game ever being able to have the honor to wear this crest," Ertz said during an interview with Fox Sports' Jenny Taft.
"Penalties are the worst, but it's an honor to represent this team and I'm excited for the future of the girls."
The kids will be alright
Ertz, 31, gave birth to her son in August last year. She made 122 appearances for the national team and scored 20 goals.
She will leave a team full of youngsters who, before the Sweden match, received criticism for their lack of passion.
Ertz is not worried about the future. She believes the younger players will keep the team as contenders.
"The future is in absolutely great hands," Ertz said. "You know, sometimes you learn the most from your failures, which sucks. But it's part of my career as well."
Coach Vlatko Andonovski also felt hurt about the loss but kept his head high, believing the players would come out of it stronger.
"It's a tough moment for them. It's a tough moment for the staff, it's a tough moment for everyone," he said.
"But in same time, I know that they will use this moment as a motivation, and not to go through the same thing ever again."
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