Ireland's Aine O'Gorman has announced her retirement from the Republic of Ireland national team. Her retirement is her second departure from international football, following the historic maiden World Cup appearance for the Girls in Green.
O'Gorman earned national team caps for the Republic of Ireland in the under-17 and under-19 age groups. Her outstanding performances led her to be honored at the FAI International Football Awards, where she was crowned the 2006 Under-19 Women's International Player of the Year.
The Ireland star made her senior Ireland debut in the 2006 Algarve Cup and went on to play 119 times for her country. She would make further history this year at the FIFA Women's World Cup. O'Gorman became the first active League of Ireland player to participate in a World Cup.
O'Gorman will now continue with her club career with Shamrock Rovers and focus on a coaching career and family as well.
In a social media post, the 34-year-old extended her heartfelt thanks to the many coaches, friends, and teammates who helped her become the footballer she dreamed of becoming.
"I've been privileged to represent my country with passion and pride 119 times, and to put on the green jersey at the World Cup was beyond my wildest dreams," she said.
"But now feels like the right time to retire, again, from international football and let the next generation get their chance.
"To all of my coaches through the years - too many to mention, but you know who you are - I would never have had the opportunity to achieve my dream without you.
"A special mention to the PFAI for their support in 2017 in helping to improve standards for the Women's National Team.
"Also to my employers, past and present, who always facilitated my dedication to play for Ireland.
The greatest honour 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/TTbqGUVjqF
— Áine O' Gorman (@Aineogor9) August 24, 2023
"To my teammates through the years, you are not just talented footballers but more importantly great people.
"We stuck together through it all, and I've made friends for life and memories to last forever.
"And also thank you to all of the managers and staff members who have helped me at both club and international levels.
"My family has been my greatest supporters, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without them.
"A special shout-out to Mammy and Daddy, taxis when I needed them starting out and always there through the years.
"It is incredibly heartwarming to see the growth of women's football in Ireland. But getting to a first major tournament is only the start for our amazing little country."
The social media post also stated that O'Gorman will now continue with her club career with Shamrock Rovers and focus on a coaching career, while also raising her new family.
"I will continue to be a professional and enjoy my football at Shamrock Rovers, pursue climbing up the coaching ladder, and look forward to spending more time with my little family," she added.
