Super Falcons forward Ifeoma Onumonu has officially retired from professional football, ending a remarkable career that spanned over two decades and saw her shine in leagues across the United States, France, and Nigeria.
The 31-year-old announced her retirement in an emotional Instagram post on Saturday, describing the decision as a “natural conclusion” to a lifelong passion that began when she was just eight years old.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch,” Onumonu wrote, reminiscing about her childhood days playing for a youth team called Magic in the United States.
She fondly recalled the innocence and joy of her early football days.
“We played in white, black, and green jerseys at the AYSO fields near my house. I remember how vast I thought the field was… All I wanted to do was run as fast as I could and score. I didn’t much care about winning or losing; I just loved playing.”
That love for the game, she said, carried her through 22 years of dedication and triumphs — from lifting the NWSL championship trophy to representing Nigeria at both the Olympics and the Women’s World Cup.
“I had the profound pleasure of lifting an NWSL championship trophy, representing Nigeria at the Olympics and a World Cup, and helping to lift the African Cup of Nations trophy with the Super Falcons for a historic 10th time,” she added.
Born in the United States, Onumonu made her senior debut for Nigeria in 2021 and quickly became a key figure for the national team. She featured at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the 2024 Paris Olympics, and the 2025 WAFCON, where Nigeria clinched its record-extending 10th African title.
Her retirement marks the end of an era for a player celebrated for her pace, skill, and unwavering commitment to women’s football.
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