USWNT’s Christen Press taking time off to focus on ‘mental health’

U.S. women’s national team forward Christen Press on Thursday announced plans to take time away from soccer, citing a desire to focus on her mental health, spiritual growth, and processing grief.

Press, who starred at Chadwick School on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, parted with Manchester United in June and has signed with Angel City FC, the National Women’s Soccer League expansion club that begins play in 2022. She was not included on the U.S. roster for a pair of exhibition games against Paraguay this month.

“I’ve been a professional player for 10 years,” Press wrote on Instagram. “And I’m very proud of the fact that I’ve been available for nearly every professional match for both club and country. And yet, that has come with a focus, intensity, and prioritization that has left little room for much else.

“I’ve made the difficult decision to take some time away from the game to focus on my mental health, spiritual growth, and processing grief. I’m sad to miss the upcoming games and seeing all of our wonderful fans. I believe I will come back stronger than ever. Thanks for all your support on my journey.”

Press, 32, made her debut for the national team in 2013 and helped the team win two Women’s World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019. Press, who was part of the bronze medal-winning squad at the Tokyo Olympics this summer, has made 155 appearances for the U.S. team, scoring 64 goals.

Press last played in the NWSL with Utah Royals FC, which folded in December. During a season-and-a-half with Utah, Press had 10 goals in 25 appearances before leaving for Manchester United last September.