Jess Fishlock Extends Tenure with Seattle Reign FC Amid Retirement from International Play

Jess Fishlock, a key player for Seattle Reign FC, has recently announced her retirement from international football after a remarkable two-decade career with the Welsh national team. However, her journey in club football continues as she has signed a new one-year contract to remain with the Reign through 2026, marking nearly 14 years with the franchise.

Upon reflecting on her return from the UEFA European Championship, Fishlock expressed a renewed sense of purpose. “When I came back from the Euros, I just felt a little different,” she shared with ESPN. “Something had shifted in what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. I am still a fierce competitor and that desire to bring a championship to Seattle is as strong as ever.”

Fishlock is unique in the NWSL as she is the last active player from the league’s inaugural season in 2013. Her longtime teammate, Lauren Barnes, also played every season with the Reign since 2013 but retired after the 2025 season, following the team’s quarterfinal exit against Orlando Pride.

Among the few remaining players from that first season are Chicago Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and Angel City forward Sydney Leroux, both of whom have switched teams throughout their careers. While Naeher has yet to announce her plans for the next season, Leroux took a mental health break in 2025.

Fishlock played an integral role in the Reign’s successful campaigns, including their NWSL Shield victories in 2014 and 2015, and she was recognized as the NWSL MVP in 2021. With a record of 48 goals and 30 assists, she holds the title for the most goal contributions in the club’s history.

Approaching her 39th birthday in January, Fishlock led the Reign in scoring during the 2025 season, contributing six goals and two assists. She expressed a renewed joy at the start of the 2025 season, attributing this to the influx of young talent and a new ownership structure at the club.

“For me, it’s always been about my body,” Fishlock noted. “While my football knowledge and experience will always be there, it’s crucial that my body can keep up with my mind. So far, it has.” She credited the Reign organization for allowing her to manage her physical health effectively, a testament to the strong relationships she has built in Seattle.

Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock, stating, “Jess sees the game at a level that very few players do, and her tactical awareness and commitment to elevating those around her will continue to drive this team forward. Her leadership and presence in the locker room are invaluable as we look ahead to 2026.”

Last month, Fishlock concluded her international career after leading Wales to the finals of the Women’s European Championship for the first time in 2025, where she also scored the nation’s first-ever goal in the tournament, becoming the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history.

Although the experience was rejuvenating, Fishlock is excited to focus fully on her club career for the first time ever. Throughout her time in Seattle, she has experienced both triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and disappointments, including three losses in championship matches.

Fishlock has witnessed significant changes within the organization, including venue shifts, ownership changes, and branding updates, all while striving to establish a strong connection with local fan bases. Her deep bond with the club fuels her ambition. “There’s something about navigating this journey with a single club that makes every moment, both good and bad, feel more profound,” she said.

“Perhaps it’s my European background, where there tends to be more stability. Since moving to Seattle, I have never wanted to leave; I aspire to build my entire career here because of the deep meaning it holds for me.”