7 Shocking Facts About Julie Ertz's Life In 2025 After Her Emotional USWNT Retirement

Julie Ertz, the two-time FIFA Women's World Cup champion and one of the most dominant defensive midfielders in soccer history, has successfully transitioned from the intensity of the pitch to a new, powerful chapter of her life. As of December 11, 2025, the former United States Women's National Team (USWNT) star is focusing on family, philanthropy, and cementing a legacy that extends far beyond her 123 international caps and 20 goals. Her post-retirement life has been just as impactful, involving massive community initiatives and personal milestones.

The decision to step away from professional soccer came after the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, marking the end of an era for the USWNT. Ertz’s career, defined by her tenacious play, leadership, and versatility (starting as a defender before becoming a world-class midfielder), remains an inspiration. Her current focus, however, reveals a powerful dedication to her family and the causes close to her heart, proving that her competitive fire is now channeled into making a difference off the field.

Julie Ertz: Complete Biography and Profile

Julie Beth Ertz (née Johnston) is an American former professional soccer player who was a linchpin for the USWNT for nearly a decade. Known for her fierce tackling and aerial dominance, she was one of the most decorated players of her generation.

• The Facts Of Life Cast Where Are Eastlands Girls Now 2024 Updates 2tx8p

• Full Name: Julie Beth Ertz (née Johnston)
• Date of Birth: April 6, 1992
• Place of Birth: Mesa, Arizona, U.S.
• Height: 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m)
• Position: Midfielder / Defender
• Youth Career: Sereno SC
• College: Santa Clara University
• Professional Clubs (Senior): Chicago Red Stars (2014–2021), Angel City FC (2023)
• National Team: United States (2013–2023)
• USWNT Appearances/Goals: 123 caps, 20 goals
• Major Honors: FIFA Women's World Cup (2015, 2019), Olympic Bronze Medal (2020), NWSL Rookie of the Year (2014), U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year (2017, 2019)
• Husband: Zach Ertz (NFL Super Bowl Champion)
• Retirement Date: August 31, 2023 (Final match: September 21, 2023)

The Powerful Post-Retirement Life and Legacy of a USWNT Icon

Julie Ertz’s official retirement on August 31, 2023, was an emotional moment for soccer fans globally. Her final game, a friendly against South Africa, served as a poignant farewell, allowing her to exit the international stage on her own terms. Since then, her life has been a whirlwind of family milestones and impactful philanthropic work, solidifying her legacy not just as an athlete, but as a community leader. The following facts reveal the powerful new direction of her life in 2025.

1. The Ertz Family's Net Worth Skyrocketed to Over $30 Million in 2025

The power couple of sports, Julie Ertz and her husband, NFL tight end Zach Ertz, have seen their combined financial portfolio grow substantially. By 2025, their combined net worth is estimated to exceed $30 million, a testament to their successful careers and smart endorsements. This financial stability allows them to focus heavily on their shared passion: The Ertz Family Foundation. Julie's transition from the NWSL and USWNT salaries to post-career endorsements and investments has been seamless and highly profitable.

2. She Was Inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame

In a major honor recognizing her immense impact, Julie Ertz was inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame. As a native of Mesa, Arizona, this recognition is particularly significant, celebrating her journey from a standout youth player to a two-time World Cup champion. This induction, happening relatively soon after her retirement, underscores how quickly her legendary status was cemented in her home state.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

3. The Ertz Family Foundation Launched Massive 2024 Community Initiatives

The Ertz Family Foundation, co-founded by Julie and Zach, has been the primary focus of her philanthropic energy since stepping away from Angel City FC and the USWNT. In September 2024, the foundation announced significant new community initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for children and empowering families in the Philadelphia and Arizona areas. Their mission focuses on sports, education, and health, channeling the competitive drive that defined her career into tangible social change. Julie's hands-on involvement ensures her dedication to service remains a core part of her identity.

4. Julie and Zach Ertz Are Welcoming a New Member to Their Family

One of the most personal and exciting updates in 2024 and 2025 is the expansion of the Ertz family. Following the birth of their son, the couple announced they are welcoming a new member, signifying a beautiful new chapter in their personal lives. This focus on family life is a key reason behind her decision to retire, prioritizing time with her children and husband, who is currently playing for the Washington Commanders in the NFL.

5. Her Final Club, Angel City FC, Became a Key Part of Her Comeback Story

While Julie Ertz is most associated with the Chicago Red Stars, her brief stint with Angel City FC in 2023 was critical to her USWNT return for the World Cup. After an 18-month absence following the Olympics and the birth of her first child, she used the NWSL club as her platform to regain match fitness. This comeback, though short-lived in the NWSL, demonstrated her unwavering commitment and mental toughness, allowing her to retire on her own terms with the national team jersey one last time.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

6. The Unbreakable Partnership with Zach Ertz Continues to Define Their Brand

The marriage between Julie, a two-time World Cup champion, and Zach, a Super Bowl Champion, remains one of the most high-profile and admired in professional sports. Their combined success and shared values have created a powerful joint brand. Even with Julie’s retirement, the couple continues to collaborate on their foundation and public appearances, leveraging their status to amplify their charitable work. Their relationship is a perfect example of two elite athletes supporting each other's careers and post-career transitions.

7. She Leaves Behind a Legacy as the USWNT's Most Dominant Midfielder

Ertz’s legacy is defined by her versatility and unparalleled intensity. She is one of the few players in USWNT history to have excelled at the highest level in two different positions: a starting center-back in the 2015 World Cup and a dominant defensive midfielder in the 2019 World Cup. Her two U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year awards (2017, 2019) place her in an elite group of players. Her final appearance, where she received a heartfelt tribute from her teammates and fans, confirmed her status as a true legend of American soccer, a legacy that will inspire future generations of defenders and midfielders.