'What a ride', as Morgan bows out at 35

United States football icon Alex Morgan bade an emotional farewell to football on Sept 8 as she played the final game of her glittering career before heading into retirement.

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The 35-year-old striker announced her decision to hang up her boots on Sept 5, after revealing she was pregnant with her second child.

She played the first 13 minutes of the San Diego Wave's 4-1 National Women's Soccer League loss to the visiting North Carolina Courage.

"What a ride it has been," Morgan told the cheering crowd after the match.

"I want to thank my teammates who have constantly challenged me every day and made me better.

"There have been so many incredible moments in my career but this last moment I share on the field with you, I will cherish forever. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you."

Morgan, who wiped away tears after speaking, thanked her family for their support and sacrifice and told her fans: "You pushed me to be my best self every day.