Alexandra Popp will retire from the German women's national soccer team next month, concluding a distinguished career that includes an Olympic gold medal from 2016, a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics this year, and a runner-up finish at the 2022 European Championship.

The 33-year-old forward and team captain announced on Monday that she will play her 145th and final match for Germany in a friendly against Australia on October 28 in Duisburg, the city where her professional journey began.

Popp shared that her decision was driven by instinct, following "long, tearful deliberations," and a wish to conclude her national-team career on her own terms.

“The passion that ignited within me 18 years ago, when I first represented the youth national teams, has nearly faded,” she stated.

“It was essential for me to make this significant decision independently. Neither my body, which feels like a ticking time bomb, nor anyone else should dictate this moment for me.”

Popp is the last remaining player from the 2016 Olympic squad and will retire holding the record for the ninth-most appearances in the team's history. She ranks as the third-highest scorer for Germany, with 67 goals to her name.

She will continue her club career with Wolfsburg, where she is contracted until the end of the 2024-25 season.

Popp made her full international debut for Germany in 2010 and has participated in four World Cups. She is the third senior player to retire from the German national team since the Paris Olympics, all of whom are affiliated with Wolfsburg.

Goalkeeper Merle Frohms announced her retirement at 29 after being benched during the Olympic tournament, and defender Marina Hegering followed suit shortly thereafter.

Popp is a three-time European club champion, having won the UEFA Women’s Cup in 2009 with Duisburg and the rebranded Champions League twice with Wolfsburg.