United States women's national team defender Julie Ertz appeared to announce her retirement from international soccer following Sunday's devastating loss to Sweden in the Women's World Cup Round of 16.
The 5-4 penalty shootout defeat featured dominant periods for the USWNT and ultimately marked the team's earliest exit from a Women's World Cup in history. After burying her face in her hands as she squatted on the pitch, Ertz reportedly indicated the end of her run.
"Unfortunately this is my last time in this crest," Ertz said via ESPN.
This comes after Ertz hinted at retiring in a postmatch interview with Jenny Taft on Fox Sports:
"It's an honor to represent this team, and I'm excited for the future of these girls.