Crystal Dunn Announces She’s Leaving Portland Thorns After Three Years
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Professional soccer player Crystal Dunn has been playing in the NWSL for almost 10 years now. Throughout the decade, she has spent a couple of years at a handful of clubs, the most recent being the Portland Thorns.
The team’s 2023 season came to an end Sunday with a loss in the playoff semifinals. And, likewise, with the end came Dunn’s departure from the team. She announced via Instagram on Thursday that this season was the last she will play for the Thorns.
“My time in Portland has come to an end and I am extremely grateful for all the memories,” she wrote in the caption of the post. “This decision has weighed heavily on me for a while but I am ready for a new journey.”
In addition to offering words of gratitude to fans and teammates, the 31-year-old shared some thoughts regarding her decision.
“Reflecting on the past 3 years, it is clear to me that trust and accountability are the basis for a strong and resilient culture,” she shared. “My time in Portland has held moments of great success and absolutely heartbreaking experiences. These moments have not only shaped some of the most challenging years of my career, but also me. I am walking away, knowing the woman, the mom, the teammate, and the friend I will forever be as I look ahead to my next chapter. I will always hold this city close to my heart. Thank you, for allowing me to meet the most resilient, authentic version of myself🌹.”
Dunn joined the Thorns roster in 2020, having been traded from the North Carolina Courage. Although her next steps are unclear, we are looking forward to her continued journey and will be rooting for her wherever it takes her.
