Portland Hearts of Pine captain Mikey Lopez announced his retirement in a video statement on club socials this morning.
"As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end," he said. "So after 14 years as a professional soccer player, this weekend will be my last game. I started playing soccer when I was three or four years old, played for most of my youth in Mission, Texas. When I turned 12, 13, I went to boarding school in Austin; St. Stephen's and played soccer there, played for Bobby [Murphy] at Lonestar and at Classics Elite. They made me the person I am today."
Lopez went on to discuss his gratitude to his other past clubs, coaches and family throughout his 14-year career, from the University of North Carolina to Sporting Kansas City, New York City FC, San Antonio FC and Birmingham Legion, making 285 appearances and scoring 12 goals along the way.
After two seasons, Lopez is one of seven players to make 50 or more appearances with the club (54), having scored one magical goal. He led his team on a late push to the playoffs in the club's inaugural year, reaching the USL League One Semifinals.
"I think Saturday will close the circle on my career, being able to play in front of my family and a sold-out Fitzpatrick Stadium and playing for Bobby one last time," he said. "I think it's the perfect way to end my career."
Hearts of Pine end their 2026 campaign against the Charlotte Independence at home on Saturday, October 24 at 5:00 PM.
