Jess Fishlock, a stalwart of Welsh women’s football, has confirmed her retirement from international duty after an extraordinary career with the national team. The 38-year-old midfielder, long regarded as one of Wales’ greatest ever players, will leave the international scene having made 165 appearances and scored 48 goals, making her Wales’ most capped player and leading goalscorer for both the women’s side and all players combined.
Her decision comes after more than 17 years of representing her country. Fishlock made her senior Wales debut in 2006 and has since been a constant in midfield, admired for her leadership, work rate and ability to produce big moments.
One of her most memorable moments came at UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, the first major tournament in which Wales ever took part. There, she made history by scoring Wales’ first ever goal at a major women’s international tournament in a group-stage game against France. At age 38 and 176 days, she also became the oldest scorer in a Women’s EURO finals match.
Fishlock has said that Euro 2025 was the “pinnacle” of her international journey. After the tournament she took time to reflect on her future with Wales, sharing that she needed to think carefully before making a final decision.
Her last matches for Wales will be played in upcoming home friendlies notably against Australia marking the end of a storied chapter. While she steps away from the international stage, she will continue playing at club level.
Beyond the statistics, Jess Fishlock’s impact off the pitch has also been profound. She has been an advocate for equality, visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, and for securing better conditions and recognition for women’s football in Wales and beyond. In 2018, she was awarded an MBE for her services to women’s football and her work off the field.
As Wales prepares to say farewell to one of their most beloved players in the international arena, the nation celebrates not just her performances, but her courage, consistency and influence.
