Wales' record goal-scorer Helen Ward has announced her retirement from international football aged 36.
The centurion won 105 Wales caps, scoring 44 goals since her debut in 2008.
The Watford striker, who played the latter part of her career as a part-time footballer and mother of two, will also retire from club football at the end of the season.
Ward said it breaks her heart that she didn't make it to a major tournament, but backs Gemma Grainger's Wales side to do so, as they prepare for Euro 2025 qualifiers later this year. Ward played her part throughout Wales' 2023 World Cup qualifying campaign, and came on as an extra-time substitute before Wales' major tournament hopes were dashed in an agonising defeat to Switzerland in the play-off final last October.
Ward, one of nine Wales football centurions, said: "It breaks my heart that I didn’t make it to a major tournament with this team, that I wasn’t at my peak when so many of my teammates were and are. But I KNOW they will make it soon and they will shine on the biggest stage of all and I cannot wait to be their best cheerleader when that happens."
It could have been a different story for England-born Ward, who represented England at U23 level prior to making the switch to Wales, qualifying as her maternal grandparents were both from Wales. "It’s not where you are born that counts, but where you feel like you belong and I’ve never felt more at home than when I’m with my team, in Wales," she said.
Ward's retirement means Wales' male and female international sides have seen their respective record goal-scorers retire in 2023, with Ward following Gareth Bale, who ended his international career with 111 Wales appearances and 41 goals.
Former Arsenal, Chelsea and Reading forward Ward previously considered retirement during the Covid lockdowns of 2020, when restrictions meant she was unable to train effectively or play.
Her final game for Wales saw her come off the bench in the final minutes against Scotland in a gritty 1-1 draw at the Pinatar Cup last month.
Helen Ward's retirement message
"Luxembourg, Tuesday 30th September 2008. The day my life changed. It was the first time I’d pulled on the red shirt and proudly wore the Dragon on my chest. I stood for THE anthem and suddenly, it became more than just a game. Never did I imagine that that honour would be bestowed upon me more than 100 times over.
"I was part of a family. As an outsider from across the bridge, I was welcomed into the most special group of people and I never looked back. Those girls, that team and Cymru became everything to me.
"The pride I feel every time I hear those words; ‘Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’ and the sense of belonging will never, ever leave me. Playing for Wales became my why. It’s the reason I kept going and wanting to improve; the reason I came back after having my children; why I didn’t let Covid be the end and why I realise that it’s not where you are born that counts, but where you feel like you belong and I’ve never felt more at home than when I’m with my team, in Wales.
"It breaks my heart that I didn’t make it to a major tournament with this team, that I wasn’t at my peak when so many of my teammates were and are. But I KNOW they will make it soon and they will shine on the biggest stage of all and I cannot wait to be their best cheerleader when that happens.
"It’s not always been easy, but it’s been the best ride of my life and I couldn’t have done it without my girls. Some of you have been there from day one and plenty more have joined along the way. They’re a special bunch and they’re my family.
"Diolch to every player, staff member and fan who have trusted me, a muggle, to represent you and wear your shirt. The love I have for you is endless.
"I gave you everything I have, I hope you know that.
"Dwi’n dy garu di, Cymru."
