Nigerian Super Falcons star Ifeoma Onumonu has confirmed her retirement from football.
On Saturday, the 31-year-old footballer took to Instagram to share a farewell message, announcing her retirement.
Onumonu wraps up a 12-year football journey, with four years spent in college and eight years playing professionally.
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In her post, the Montpellier forward, who earned her first Super Falcons call-up in 2021, reflected on her early football experiences in the United States.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch,” she wrote.
“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.
“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 recounted a career that included the 2023 World Cup, the 2024 Olympics, and helping the Super Falcons clinch their record 10th WAFCON title earlier this year.
She also shared her intention to pursue new opportunities within the football world.
“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,” she added.
“Thank you to all the staff, teammates, coaches, doctors, fans, and my incredible friends and family for your unwavering support through the years.
“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 made 32 appearances for the Super Falcons, netting five goals.
She etched her name in history as the first Super Falcons player to score for Nigeria against France and became the first Nigerian female footballer to join Montpellier HSC, signing with the French Première Ligue club in 2024.
