Sherida Spitse has announced her retirement from international football after nearly 20 years on the international stage. She made a record 247 appearances for the Dutch women’s national team but has now decided to focus on her family and a future in coaching. The upcoming international friendly at home against Canada will be her final match.
Words from Sherida Spitse
“The moment feels heavier than I thought it would, but amid all those emotions, I also feel calm. Calm because my priorities have changed. I’ve had many conversations with my family, with myself and finally with Arjan [Veurink].
“I’m going to say goodbye to the national team. It’s taken a lot of sacrifice, but I’ve done it with all my heart. But now, my heart is at home, with the kids and in a new chapter: coaching.
“Fans, family, friends, coaches and teammates: thank you for all your support. I couldn’t have done it without you. In Nijmegen, I’ll wear the Oranje jersey one last time, against Canada. Then we’ll share a beautifull farewell together.
“Time to let go of Oranje but it will always be a part of me. Thank you all for everything.”
Spitse will play one final international game
The Dutch midfielder will bid farewell to fans during the international friendly against Canada on October 28, which will mark her 248th appearance. Spitse made her debut for Oranje in 2006 at just 16 years old—nearly two decades ago. Her greatest achievement: winning the UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 on home soil. In total, she represented the Netherlands at five European Championships and three World Cups
A New Chapter for Oranje
The Dutch national team is entering a period of transition, with Arjan Veurink taking over as head coach, replacing Andries Jonker. The goal will be to introduce fresh talent to the squad and work toward reclaiming a top position in women’s football, something the Netherlands has drifted away from in recent years.
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