Jack Flaherty has had his fair share of big-game moments on the mound, but lately, the spotlight has been just as much on his personal life. The Tigers pitcher recently made things official with former soccer pro Katie Johnson, and the two haven’t been shy about sharing their romance. From a cozy Napa Valley dinner at The French Laundry to playful photo booth snaps that blew up online, the couple has quickly become one of baseball’s buzziest storylines.

But Johnson isn’t simply “the girlfriend.” She carved out a respected career in the NWSL, represented Mexico on the international stage, and retired in 2024 after eight hard-fought seasons. Her journey — from Monrovia to USC to Angel City FC — has made her a standout in her own right.

Who is Katie Johnson? Everything to know about the soccer star

Katie Johnson was born on September 14, 1994, in Monrovia, California, into a family with deep Mexican roots through her mother, Esther Carreón. That heritage shaped her path, giving her the chance to represent Mexico at the international level.

Before she ever suited up professionally, Johnson made her name at the University of Southern California. She saved her best for the brightest lights, scoring twice in the 2016 NCAA Championship game to deliver USC the national title. Her performance pushed her into the national spotlight and led to her being taken in the first round of the 2017 NWSL Draft.

Known for her ability to play both forward and midfield, Johnson was praised for her adaptability, leadership, and nose for goal. Her professional career ended with more than two decades’ worth of soccer memories packed into eight seasons at the top.

Is she currently playing with a team? All about her professional life

Johnson’s career wound through some of the biggest markets in the league. She began with the Seattle Reign before stints with Sky Blue FC, the Chicago Red Stars, and the San Diego Wave. In 2023, she signed with Angel City FC, returning to Southern California to play in front of family and friends.

Internationally, Johnson chose to represent Mexico, earning 23 caps and scoring eight goals. She called the opportunity one of the best experiences of her career, a way to honor her roots while chasing her dream of playing on the world stage.

By December 2024, Johnson announced she was stepping away from the game. Her farewell note struck a personal chord: “I’m closing this chapter of life with an inner peace. Playing at home in L.A. with my family right by my side will forever hold a special place in my heart.” After eight seasons in the NWSL, she left with her legacy secure.

How long has she been dating Jack Flaherty? Diving deeper into their relationship timeline

Flaherty and Johnson’s romance first surfaced publicly in July 2025, when Johnson posted a carousel from The French Laundry in Napa Valley. Captioned “Wined and dined 🍷,” it was the couple’s Instagram debut and the first real confirmation of what fans had been speculating.

Weeks later, their relationship dominated headlines again after a playful photo booth reel hit Flaherty’s Instagram Story. The candid, affectionate shots — with plenty of PDA — spread fast, cementing them as one of sports’ newest power couples.

For Flaherty, who just re-upped with the Tigers after a championship stint with the Dodgers, the timing is notable. And for Johnson, stepping away from soccer has opened the door for a new chapter off the field. Together, they’ve blended the spotlight of MLB and NWSL into a story fans can’t stop following.

Conclusion

Katie Johnson isn’t just Jack Flaherty’s partner — she’s a former USC champion, Mexican international, and NWSL veteran who poured eight seasons into the game. With her retirement, she’s moved into a new stage of life, but her influence on the pitch and her pride in her heritage remain clear.

Now, alongside Flaherty, she’s part of one of the more intriguing cross-sport couples in today’s sports world. Baseball fans may be meeting her for the first time, but soccer fans already know: Katie Johnson built a career worth celebrating.