Sydney Leroux said “a step away from football for my mental health” a day before her club Angel City launched its NWSL campaign against the San Diego waves.
Leroux, 34, claimed in a post created on Instagram that she would be back.
“This is one of the hardest things I've ever had to tell myself. But after a lot of reflection, I made the difficult decision to leave football for my mental health,” Leroux said.
“Anyone who knows I'm a fighter – I've always been. I take pride in showing up and giving everything I have, but now I owe to myself and my kids to take a step back and take care of me.
“I've always been proud to be honest, authentic and loyal to who I am on and off the field. This moment is no different. I'm grateful to everyone who supported me, loved me and believed in me.
“This isn't goodbye. I'll always be back like a true sid.”
Leroux, who has been with Angel City since his first NWSL season in 2022, signed an extension to 2027 during the offseason.
Last September, the NWSL announced its expansion of mental health services as part of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
ESPN reported that the maximum duration of players' mental leave remains the same. The shorter six weeks, or the rest of the contract. However, previously, psychologists or psychiatrists had to encourage players to take mental leave. The new CBA expands the scope of mental health professionals who can make its recommendations. A licensed mental health provider is one of the staff positions required for each team.
Leroux scored 10 goals in Angel City's 42 NWSL matches and 35 goals in 77 appearances for the US Women's National Team. She won the World Cup at USWNT in 2015.
