Portland Thorns’ Angela Salem retires from NWSL

Portland Thorns’ midfielder Angela Salem has announced her retirement after more than a decade playing professional soccer.

“All good things must come to an end,” Salem wrote on social media. “And it is time to walk away from the game I love.”

All good things must come to an end…and it is time to walk away from the game I love ❤️🌹🥲 pic.twitter.com/4zFHFyu7sv

— Angela Salem (@asalem6) February 2, 2022

A member of the Thorns since 2018, the 33-year-old appeared in 23 games in 2021, tallying two goals and one assist. She was named to the NWSL Best XI First Team and a finalist for the 2021 NWSL MVP.

“Being selected by the Portland Thorns in the dispersal draft was truly a dream come true,” said Salem. “Representing this city, the fans, and the organization has pushed me to become a better player, leader, teammate, and individual.

“I never took my time in Portland for granted and poured my heart and soul into every game, training, and opportunity that was presented. My journey throughout my career and especially with the Thorns has been quite a ride, but all good things come to an end, and fortunately, I feel at peace knowing that my last game was played exactly where I wanted – with my friends, at Providence Park, in front of our home fans, watching you all wave your scarves one last time.”

Across a nine-year NWSL career, Salem made 133 appearances for over 10,000 career minutes played. With the Western New York Flash she won an NWSL Shield in 2013. While in Portland she won the 2021 Challenge Cup, the Women’s International Champions Cup and the 2021 NWSL Shield.

“Angela was such an impactful player, teammate, and person to this club, what she contributed is irreplaceable,” said Thorns FC general manager Karina LeBlanc. “We want to thank her for the way she committed to this organization, the fans and the community. We wish her the best in this next phase of life, and hope to work with her in the future to continue her legacy here in Portland.”