In a move that signifies her commitment to the club and her determination to end her career on a high note, USWNT legend and NWSL veteran Sydney Leroux has signed a new three-year contract with Angel City FC. The deal, which runs through 2027, ensures that the 34-year-old forward will remain a key figure in the team’s quest for success.
A New Chapter in Leroux’s Storied Career
Leroux, who joined Angel City midway through their inaugural 2022 NWSL season, has been a driving force both on and off the pitch. Her experience, leadership, and goal-scoring prowess have been invaluable to the fledgling club, and her decision to extend her stay is a testament to her belief in the team’s potential.
The older I get, the more my role changes. I feel like I really pushed through this year. I was able to show myself that I can still do this. I was thinking about retiring. And my kids want me to play. I’m doing this for them, and I’m doing this for me. I want to end somewhere that I started, and this is it.
Sydney Leroux on her decision to continue playing
Making Her Mark in L.A.
Since joining Angel City, Leroux has been on a mission to prove that she still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Throughout the 2024 regular season, she has scored seven goals in 24 matches – the most in her NWSL career since 2012. Over the last two years with the club, Leroux has netted 10 goals and provided two assists in 42 total appearances across all competitions.
Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, with Angel City’s technical director Mark Wilson praising her impact on the team and the league as a whole:
As a seasoned professional and U.S. Women’s National Team icon, Sydney has been pivotal in driving the growth of the league and bringing unforgettable moments to our fans during her time at Angel City. We are thrilled she will continue her career with Angel City as we continue to lay the foundation for a sustainable and successful team for season to come.
Mark Wilson, Angel City FC Technical Director
A Career Defined by Success
Leroux’s professional journey began in 2012 when she was drafted first overall by the Atlanta Beat in the Women’s Professional Soccer League. Since then, she has established herself as one of the most prolific forwards in American soccer history.
In the NWSL, Leroux has scored 48 goals in 160 regular-season appearances, placing her eighth on the league’s all-time scoring list. Her club career has seen her represent teams such as the Boston Breakers, Seattle Reign FC, Western New York Flash, FC Kansas City, and the Orlando Pride before finding her home with Angel City.
On the international stage, Leroux has been equally impressive. With 35 goals in 77 appearances for the USWNT, she has played a crucial role in some of the team’s greatest triumphs. In 2012, she helped lead the US to a gold medal at the London Olympics, and three years later, she was part of the squad that lifted the World Cup trophy in Canada.
Coming Full Circle
For Leroux, signing a new deal with Angel City is not just about extending her playing career; it’s about coming full circle and finding a sense of belonging. As a UCLA alumna, Los Angeles holds a special place in her heart, and the opportunity to help build something special with Angel City was too good to pass up.
I think it was really important just to be somewhere for a while and know you’re going to be there for a while. I’ve been moving all over the place all my life, so it’s nice to be home. I went to UCLA so this is my home. It’s really nice to feel like you’re at home.
Sydney Leroux on the importance of stability
As Angel City continues to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in the NWSL, Leroux’s presence both on and off the pitch will be crucial. Her experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the cause will undoubtedly inspire her teammates and help shape the club’s identity for years to come.
With Leroux leading the charge, Angel City fans can look forward to an exciting future filled with memorable moments and, perhaps, a few more trophies to add to the forward’s already impressive collection.
