USWNT veteran Becky Sauerbrunn signs surprise new contract at Portland Thorns as she decides against following Crystal Dunn out of NWSL club

Sauerbrunn, who joined Portland in 2020, entered the offseason as a free agent and was free to embark on a new challenge at the age of 38, but has surprisingly resigned with the Thorns for a fifth consecutive season. The Thorns have undergone a change in ownership with RAJ Sports acquiring the outfit for $63 million. In an offseason which has been marked by several Thorns departures, including Sauerbrunn's USWNT colleague Crystal Dunn, Natalia Kuikka, Emily Menges, and Raquel Rodríguez, her continued commitment provides stability to the team.

After signing the contract, Sauerbrunn said: "I’m thrilled to be continuing my career with the Thorns as we enter a new era for the club. And as we welcome new ownership and investment, I’m thankful for the opportunity to play for the city and supporters that have always made being a Thorn such an unrivalled experience."

Sauerbrunn's illustrious NWSL career spans 11 seasons, with championships won with FC Kansas City and the Thorns in 2022. The defender has also inspired the Thorns to win the 2020 NWSL Community Shield, the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup, and the 2022 NWSL Shield, making her one of the most distinguished players in the history of the league. She has also been recognised as NWSL Defender of the Year on four occasions which established her as one of the proven veterans of the sport in the United States.

Beyond her club success, Sauerbrunn's international contributions include 217 appearances for the United States. She played an integral role in securing World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, an Olympic gold medal in 2012, and a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Sauerbrunn is currently enjoying a break from football and will be back in pre-season training in February. The Thorns are scheduled to play a pre-season friendly against San Diego Wave on February 25, in which she is likely to return to the pitch.