Crystal Dunn: Through the Lens
USWNT Defender Crystal Dunn announced her retirement from professional soccer after 160 caps and 25 goals
Crystal Dunn, a FIFA World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist and one of the legends in U.S. Women’s National Team history, officially announced her retirement from professional soccer. Dunn’s versatility and excellent one-on-one defending will be remembered just as much as her selflessness and lively personality.
Crystal Dunn competing in 2012 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Japan.
She was an outside back and a center back during her Youth National Team Career, but she transitioned to a winger/striker by 2015 after her stellar NWSL season with the Washington Spirit where she won the Golden Boot and MVP honors. She closed her international career as a left back, consistently shutting down forwards while also contributing to the U.S. attack down the wings.
Crystal Dunn defends during the Women's group B match between United States and Zambia during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de Nice on July 25, 2024 in Nice , France.
As one of the first Black stars of the U.S. Women’s National Team, especially as a field player, Dunn has long been a role model to many young players of color across the country who aspired to reach the highest levels of the game.
Margaret Purce, Naomi Girma, Casey Krueger, Sophia Smith, Jaedyn Shaw, Trinity Rodman, Crystal Dunn and Lynn Williams of the United States pose with tshirts celebrating Black History Month after USWNT Training at Dignity Health Sports Park on February 22, 2024 in Carson, California.
Dunn was also popular among teammates, known for her uplifting spirit and dance moves.
United States players including Crystal Dunn celebrate after defeating Brazil during the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup final at Snapdragon Stadium on March 10, 2024 in San Diego, California.
Jaedyn Shaw and Crystal Dunn dance during USWNT training at San Diego FC Performance Center on February 25, 2025 in El Cajon, California.
Crystal Dunn kisses her son Marcel after the Women's Gold Medal match against Brazil during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Parc des Princes on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France.