Tim Ream Gets His Flowers, Reflects on 16-Year Journey
ST. LOUIS – Tim Ream looks uncomfortable even thinking of saying the word, “retire.” It makes him shudder, as if he’s trying to shake something irksome off his shoulders.The 38-year-old prefer...
Tim Ream, the 38-year-old defender, is retiring from international soccer after a 16-year career with the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT). The veteran, who made his debut in November 2010, has amassed 86 caps for his country, with 60 of those appearances coming after the age of 30. Ream, who was named captain for the USMNT for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, became the oldest field player to appear in a World Cup in program history. He played all four matches in the USA's memorable run, starting in all of them.
Ream's teammate Chris Richards praised his former colleague, calling him the main focal point of the team and acknowledging the wisdom and youth he brings. Ream's decision to retire came after discussions about the transition following the 2026 World Cup. With younger players taking center stage this summer, such as Red Bull New York forward Julian Hall and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mathis Albert, Ream reflects on the evolution of the sport he's been a part of for two decades.
The U.S. Men's National Team's recent success, including a 4-2 come-from-behind victory over Chile at his hometown stadium in St. Louis, adds a fitting backdrop to Ream's farewell. As club soccer continues to be a part of his life, the final chapter of his international career has now begun.
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