Malta’s Retirement and Return

In 2024, the announcement of Malta’s retirement from international football brought emotional responses across the world of soccer.

This marked the end of an era, as the Brazilian star was among the last of the legends from the golden age of women’s soccer.

Having almost secured a gold medal against the US during a summer tournament in Paris, Malta decided it was time to step away from representing Brazil on the global stage.

It seemed like a fitting moment to leave. While she continues her club career with the NWSL’s Orlando Pride, she departs as a six-time FIFA Women’s Player of the Year and holds the record for the most goals in the Women’s World Cup at 17.

Malta’s impact on women’s soccer goes beyond her incredible performance on the field. She has also been a champion for women’s rights in sports, inspiring countless young athletes.

Her tear-filled retirement announcement in 2023 was particularly poignant.

“I hope all women can envision a hopeful future, not defined solely by football or sports, but in any endeavor. We must strive every day to make the world a better place for everyone,” she expressed.

It’s worth noting that Malta led the Pride to an NWSL title last year, marking a stunning finale to her career at 38. She often reflected on how long it might take for her to be recognized in Orlando’s signature purple kit.

Interestingly, this summer she was announced to come out of retirement for the Copa America Femenina, South America’s premier women’s tournament. Brazil made it to the final, but lost 3-2.

At 39, Malta, who had already hung up her boots, found herself stepping onto the field late in the match. With just eight minutes left, it’s tough for anyone to make a significant impact.

If you weren’t tuning in as a women’s soccer fan, you might have missed her key contributions, including two goals that helped Brazil take a 4-3 lead.

Colombia equalized in the 115th minute, pushing the game into penalties, which Brazil ultimately won—marking their fifth consecutive title.

Since then, it’s unclear whether Malta will fully return from retirement, especially with next year’s Women’s FIFA World Cup on the horizon in Brazil. With an unforgettable record of 122 goals in 206 matches wearing Brazil’s iconic colors, whatever decision she makes, her legacy is already cemented.