Sinead Farrelly announces retirement, feels ‘at peace’ after a storybook second chance

Photo Copyright Ray Acevedo for USA TODAY Sports

Sinead Farrelly is retiring again, but this time, it feels different. 

“Soccer has been such an important part of my life and it’s been so amazing to be back here,” Farrelly exclusively told The Equalizer. “It’s ended maybe a little sooner than I thought but that’s being overshadowed by this complete gratitude that I have, that I’ve had this opportunity at all.” 

The NJ/NY Gotham FC midfielder announced her retirement after being placed on the season-ending injury list due to post-concussive syndrome. Farrelly was advised by a neurologist to cease playing soccer due to the cumulative head injuries she has sustained throughout her career. She had previously announced her retirement from international play with Ireland in April. 

Farrelly certainly had a storybook second chance after initially leaving the game in 2016. In addition to winning an NWSL Championship with Gotham in 2023, the Pennsylvania native laced up her boots for a World Cup appearance with Ireland that same year. 

“I feel so much peace, gratitude, and joy for this journey and I’m just so happy that I said yes and took the leap,” Farrelly said.