“It took me longer than l expected to reach this decision…” the message read. “…but today, I stand here with a clear and peaceful mind.” It may not seem like it, but we’re warning you that these words are about to leave you heartbroken. Precisely, NWSL veteran Yuki Nagasato has officially retired from professional soccer. The iconic Japanese forward is the latest name in the women’s game to finally call it quits at 37.

Having enjoyed a storied career not only across various clubs in Europe and the NWSL but also on the international stage, Nagasato’s journey in the beautiful game has finally come to an end. The news broke after the forward took to Instagram, sharing a beautifully designed carousel post, which was accompanied by a heartfelt letter and some iconic moments from her playing time.

The first slide was a graphic of Yuki in all of the jerseys she donned in her career, along with a big message: “Thank you, football. 2005-2025.” The following two posts had an emotional message she penned for her fans and the teams she represented throughout her career. “I, Yuki Nagasato, have come to the undeniable realization that my passion and energy to continue playing as a professional footballer have run their course,” she wrote. “So, I have decided to close this chapter of my career. I have given it my all and the final flame burned out. – every last drop.”

Yes! By every last drop, we mean every single one of them. Well, her career alone is a testament to this fact. Be it making her debut with the Japanese side, Nippon TV Beleza, at just 15 to playing for a hoist of clubs across Europe, Nagasato’s trophy cabinet makes her an iconic name of the game. Hailing from a small island in Japan, the veteran also expressed her gratitude for being able to adapt to the game she had “never experienced before.”

Even Yuki’s international career was not short of excellence, having lifted 12 trophies for Japan, including the 2011 World Cup. No wonder she admitted in her heartfelt message that playing for her national team “shaped me in ways beyond measure.” The talented attacker also insisted that she completely “immersed” her heart and soul while honoring the batch of her country.

Surprising as it may sound, back in 2020, Nagasato carved her name in the echelons of soccer by joining the men’s club, Hayabusa Eleven, on loan in the Kanagawa Prefecture League. Not only did this make her the first woman to compete for the Hayabusa Eleven, but also made her one of the rare female players to feature in men’s professional soccer.

Nagasato recalled all the hardships she endured throughout her soccer career but remains grateful for facing them. Otherwise, the Houston Dash star couldn’t have been where she is today. While the Japanese icon won’t be kicking a soccer ball anymore, her role in the sport doesn’t end here. Revealing what she has found her calling post-retirement, Yuki added, “While my journey as a player comes to an end, I would like to pass these life experiences on to others who are seeking guidance.”

As a concluding note, she thanked all the people who supported her stellar journey in the game. Nagasato also gave a special commendation to her fans for showcasing their unwavering encouragement. “And thank you, football, for connecting me with those amazing people and giving me the incredible opportunity to learn valuable life lessons,” concluded Yuki. These earnest words caught the attention of many in the soccer fraternity. Not just fans, but even revered names jumped on the bandwagon to send their farewell messages to Nagasato.

Soccer community bids their goodbyes to NWSL icon Yuki Nagasato

After Yuki Nagasato shared the devastating news of her retirement, her comment section was filled with heartwarming messages. Chelsea superstar Sam Kerr sent her regards to Nagasato. Interestingly, both had shared a locker room at Chicago Red Stars but couldn’t play much together. During her initial stint with Chicago between 2017 to 2019, the Japanese icon was sent on loan to Brisbane Roar.

By the time Yuki returned to the Stars again for the 2022-23 campaign, Kerr had already joined her former WSL which she used to represent between 2013 and 2014. Given the brief history between these two, it was expected of Kerr to pen a heartfelt message: “It was an honour to be apart of your amazing career Yuki ❤️ Arigatō Yuki!”

Sarah Gordan, another veteran, also shared a locker room with Nagasato at Chicago Stars. Then again, both couldn’t play much; Gordan remained with the club between 2016 to 2021 and then joined Angel City a year later, while Yuki moved to Louisville Racing a season prior. But that doesn’t mean Sarah didn’t get to enjoy her time with the forward: “Yuki!!! I loved every minute I got to step on the field with you. You’re a legend forever. Forever a fan of yours💚💚💚✨”

Wherever Nagasato played in her domestic career, she was able to win the hearts of her ardent fans. Aside from having spent seven seasons in NWSL where she made 134 appearances, notching 23 goals and 25 assists, she spent the majority of her years in Germany. With over 115 games and 59 goals, she represented the highest ranks of Turbine Potsdam, Wolfsburg, and Frankfurt. She even won 2 Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League. So a special shout-out from the German fanbase is long overdue: “Congrats on an amazing career, Yuki! Arigatō, danke, thanks 😊 🙏🏽 Greetings from Frankfurt.”

We are surprised to see the fanbase Nagasato has in the United States, especially given how Japan has broken the hearts of many Americans. Don’t recall? The 2011 Women’s World Cup ring any bells? Japan had defeated the USWNT in the finals as the 2-2 draw resulted in game penalties. Ironically, Nagasato had missed her penalty against Hope Solo, yet her side defeated the American ladies 3-1. And now, the hysteric part is that this netizen admits that he has been a fan of Nagasato for yet another memory against the US: “Big fan after you scored a great header vs US in Sweden in 2012. So fun to watch. Congrats and thanks!”

A special shout-out goes to the audience of Japan. Their love and support had always fueled Nagasato to help the Asian side achieve the impossible. In fact, the upcoming generations of Japan would be grateful that they had a player like Yuki; they should be inspired by her illustrious career. Well, this fan was able to acknowledge that: “It’s been a real privilege to watch you play over the years. You were an inspiration to many and I’m sure you’ll continue to inspire in ways that only you can. Happy retirement, Yuki!”

This is just a glimpse of the positivity and praise that has been pouring in for Yuki. USWNT veterans Casey Krueger and Arin Wright, or even Lionesses’ icon Carly Telford—the majority of the names that Nagasato has shared the pitch with, wrote heartfelt messages. Regardless, one thing is clear, soccer can only hope to have another Yuki Nagasato!