Nigerian international and Super Falcons forward Ifeoma Onumonu has brought her playing career to an end after more than a decade of professional football across the United States, France and Nigeria.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram on Saturday, the 31-year-old described her retirement 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.
“From those early days running across fields near my home with my youth team, Magic, I fell in love with the game, not because of winning or losing, but because I simply loved to play.”
Over a career spanning 22 years, Onumonu represented several top clubs and achieved milestones that many players only dream of.
She lifted the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) championship in the United States, featured for Nigeria at the World Cup and Olympic Games and helped the Super Falcons win their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in 2025.
Born in the United States, Onumonu made her debut for Nigeria’s senior team in 2021 and quickly established herself as one of the squad’s most reliable forwards.
She was part of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup team and returned to the international stage for the 2024 Paris Olympics, earning a call-up from the alternates list following Halimatu Ayinde’s injury.
At the 2025 Women’s AFCON in Morocco, she featured in Nigeria’s group stage clash with Algeria before the team went on to reclaim continental glory.
Her leadership and professionalism were often cited as vital influences on younger players in the national setup.
Onumonu began her professional journey in the United States with the Boston Breakers and later played for Portland Thorns, Reign FC, Utah Royals, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
She most recently represented Montpellier HSC in France’s Division 1 Féminine.
A graduate of the University of California’s Golden Bears program, she also represented the U.S at the U-23 level before switching allegiance to Nigeria, a decision she described as one of the proudest of her life.
Known for her intelligence on the ball, calm finishing, and tireless work rate, Onumonu earned respect from teammates and fans alike.
In her farewell note, she emphasised that her departure from professional football does not mean a departure from the sport entirely.
“This is not goodbye to football, but the beginning of a new chapter,” she said.
“I’m excited to explore opportunities off the pitch, carrying forward the lessons and experiences that the game has given me.”
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported her along the way.
“To all my coaches, teammates, doctors, fans, friends, and family, thank you for walking this journey with me. Although my time as a player has ended, my love and devotion to football will never fade.”
With her retirement, Onumonu closes a distinguished chapter in Nigerian women’s football, leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, humility and excellence on and off the field.
