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Alexandra Popp, Germany’s long-serving captain, has announced her retirement from international football. The 33-year-old striker, who has scored 67 goals in 144 appearances since her debut in 2010, will play her final match against Australia on 28 October in Duisburg.
Popp, who has been a central figure for Germany for over a decade, expressed that the decision came after “long, tearful deliberations” and that her “fire” for the game has nearly burned out. “I have decided with a heavy heart to end my career with the national team,” she said.
Throughout her distinguished career, Popp played in four Women’s World Cups and led Germany to the final of the European Championship in 2022. She also won Olympic gold in 2016.
Germany head coach Christian Wück praised Popp as the “defining face of the women’s national team” and lauded her impact on the game. Popp remains under contract with Wolfsburg until June 2024, where she has played since 2012.
