Super Falcons striker Ifeoma Onumonu has officially announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an end to an illustrious career both at club and international levels.
Onumonu was part of the historic Super Falcons team that won the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco Nigeria’s record-extending 10th continental title.
In a heartfelt statement, the forward reflected on her journey and expressed deep gratitude for her experiences in the game.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch,” she said.
“I started playing football when I was eight years old on a team called the Magic. We wore white, black, and green jerseys and played on the AYSO fields near my home. I don’t remember my position or whether I passed the ball I just wanted to run as fast as I could and score. I didn’t care much about winning or losing; I simply loved the game.”
“Now, 22 years later, I feel I have reached a natural conclusion to that discovery. It has been an incredible journey from lifting an NWSL championship trophy to representing Nigeria at the Olympics and the World Cup, and winning the African Cup of Nations with the Super Falcons for a historic 10th time.”
Onumonu added that her retirement marks a transition rather than an end.
“This is not a goodbye to football, but a new beginning. I’m excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, using the lessons I’ve learned throughout my career.”
She also expressed appreciation to everyone who supported her along the way:
“Thank you to all the staff, teammates, coaches, doctors, fans, and my incredible friends and family for your unwavering support through the years. Though my time as a player has come to an end, my love and devotion to this game will never fade.”
