Millie Bright, one of the most accomplished players in women’s football history, has made her international retirement official. This decision signals the conclusion of an extraordinary run of her own. A star at last summer’s World Cup, the defender was lauded for her leadership and tenacity, and made her international debut for England in September 2016. Since then, nine years ago, she has accumulated an impressive 88 caps. Bright’s journey with the national team culminated in significant achievements, including a victory at Euro 2022 and a captaincy role during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Bright’s announcement came during her podcast, ‘The Rest is Football: Daly Brightness.’ She spoke of pride in her achievements while recognizing how personal challenges shaped her choice to step down. After healing from knee surgery, Bright dedicated his time and energy towards genuine self-reflection. This was clearly the right moment to leave international competition, and he made that decision.
A Celebrated Career
Bright opened her international career at a late notice when she replaced Karen Carney in the first game against Belgium as a substitute. Indeed, it is in fact England who won the first match 2-0. As the years have gone by, she forged herself as an integral part of the powerhouse, making huge impacts on shaping them into champions. Her performance at Euro 2022 was the most exceptional. In 2022, she anchored the backline for England as they captured the European championship, starting each game of the tournament.
In 2023, with captain Leah Williamson injured, Bright captained the team through the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Although the team lost to Argentina in the final, Bright’s leadership became a touchstone of Women’s World Cup success. She reflected on her time with the national team, saying, “I want my legacy to be about being a winner – a difference maker. Not just someone who was there, but someone who grabbed every opportunity with both hands and wanted to make change.”
Bright’s impact on the pitch can’t just be measured in raw statistics. On the field, her imposing presence and dedication to winning have garnered her the utmost respect from teammates and coaches. Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England team, praised Bright’s contributions, stating, “Whether she had the armband or not, she is a true leader. I know how much respect there is for Millie within the game – not just because she has won so many trophies but because of the way she conducts herself.”
Navigating Personal Challenges
Bright’s retirement decision did not come lightly. She has been candid about her mental health challenges and the necessity of putting her well-being first. After major knee surgery, I stepped away from performing, using the time to recharge physically and creatively. Her time away from SRC gave her the opportunity to reflect on her life and career.
“I’ve been weighing this up for a long time,” Bright shared during her podcast announcement. It’s the kind of decision that no one can decide for you. It’s an incredible feeling and I’m at peace with it. This reflection caused her to focus on what she really wanted to do with her life in the future.
Bright’s absence from selection for England’s Euro 2025 squad was stunning. As her U.S. teammates successfully defended their European title, she did so from the couch. The experience only reinforced her realization that taking a step back was the best choice for her future growth and wellbeing.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
As Bright wraps up this chapter of her professional career, she made it clear that she hopes to leave behind a legacy that matters. She accomplished incredible things with the national team, winning multiple Concacaf trophies and playing in unforgettable matches. Today, she looks back with nostalgia on her career as an international athlete.
I’m so proud and honoured to have represented England for so many years, she stated. Each cap has been special in its own right. Those vibrant memories I’ve forged with them are some of the richest experiences I’ve ever had. This is the right moment for me to step away from the role with England.
Bright’s dedication to the game, her pursuit of excellence, and her poise as an on- and off-field leader will not be forgotten by fans or players. Her path forward will inspire countless future athletes and show the new generation that following your passion does not mean sacrificing yourself.
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