Tim Ream Retires from U.S. Men's National Soccer Team
The longtime captain concludes his 16-year international career with 86 caps.
U.S. Men's National Team captain Tim Ream announced his retirement from international soccer on Tuesday, concluding a 16-year tenure with the team. The 38-year-old center back earned 86 caps for the USMNT, with 60 of those appearances coming after his 30th birthday.
Ream made his announcement in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, just before a friendly match between the USMNT and Chile. He had served as captain during the United States' participation in the 2022 and 2026 World Cups, starting in four of the team's five matches in the most recent tournament.
"That’s it for me. I’m proud of being part of something for 16 years, but it is time to step away from the national team," Ream told reporters, according to USA Today. He added, "I’ve said in the past that I won’t retire from the national team until I retire completely from the game, but the kids are getting younger and younger, and I don’t mean my own kids."
Ream, who currently plays for Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer, began his international career in 2010. In addition to his World Cup appearances, he was part of the USMNT squads that won the CONCACAF Nations League titles in 2020 and 2023. He also featured in four CONCACAF Gold Cup finals.
Speaking about Ream, Mauricio Pochettino noted his humility and dedication, stating, "I think he was humble enough. He was always defending his team, the teammates, but always with empathy for [the coaching staff] and helping in every single decision."
With Ream's departure, the team will need to identify a new captain. Reports suggest Tyler Adams could be a candidate for the role.
