Boluwatife Kehinde
Super Falcons forward Ifeoma Onumonu has officially announced her retirement from professional football at the age of 31, concluding an inspiring career that spanned multiple continents and leagues.
In a poignant statement shared on her Instagram page over the weekend, Onumonu expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is with a heart full of gratitude that I bid farewell to my playing career on the pitch.” This message not only signifies her departure from the sport but also reflects a profound sense of fulfillment following over a decade of commitment to the game.
Born on February 25, 1994, in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Onumonu’s football journey began in the United States, where her exceptional talent was evident from a young age. She played collegiate football at the University of California, Berkeley, where she made 82 appearances and scored 33 goals, establishing herself as one of the premier players in the NCAA during her tenure.
Her professional career commenced in 2017, when she was drafted by the Boston Breakers in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Following the dissolution of the Breakers, Onumonu continued her career with the Portland Thorns, Reign FC, and subsequently NJ/NY Gotham FC (formerly Sky Blue FC). Over the course of her NWSL career, she made more than 100 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 9 assists.
In 2024, Onumonu expanded her horizons by signing with Montpellier HSC in the French Division 1 Féminine. She played a significant role during the 2024–25 season, achieving 7 goals and 2 assists in 19 matches before deciding to retire.
On the international stage, Onumonu initially represented the United States U-23 team before making the impactful decision to play for Nigeria’s Super Falcons in 2021.
This choice allowed her to reconnect with her roots while performing on African soil. With 32 international caps and 5 goals, she was a vital member of the Super Falcons team that won the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), marking a pinnacle in her career.
Beyond her statistics, Ifeoma Onumonu’s journey exemplifies resilience, identity, and excellence. From her beginnings on California’s fields to triumphs in Africa, she has embodied passion and perseverance. As she embarks on a new chapter in her life, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will inspire young girls both in Nigeria and the diaspora to pursue their dreams without boundaries.
