CameroonOnline.ORG | For over a decade, Estelle Johnson has been a force on the soccer field, a rock in defense, and an inspiration to many. But today, after 14 years of professional play, the final whistle has blown on her illustrious career.
From the NWSL to the international stage with Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses, Johnson’s journey has been one of resilience, passion, and purpose. Her announcement today was not just a goodbye to the game, but a love letter to the people who made it all worthwhile.
A Career Spanning Continents
Born in Cameroon to an American father and a Malian mother, Johnson’s life was one of movement. Her father’s work took the family to different parts of the world before they eventually settled in Colorado. There, her love for soccer flourished, setting the stage for a career that would span multiple leagues and nations.
She played in the U.S. with teams like the Western New York Flash, Washington Spirit, Gotham FC, and North Carolina Courage. She also made her mark in Australia’s W-League with Sydney FC. Yet, it was her decision to represent her birth nation, Cameroon, that added a powerful chapter to her story.
Johnson had long admired the Cameroonian national team, but it was not until after the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup that she actively pursued the opportunity to join them. It was a journey filled with obstacles, but when Alain Djeumfa took over as head coach in 2019, she finally secured her spot. That year, she made her debut and played every minute of Cameroon’s World Cup campaign, proving her worth on the grandest stage of all.
A Farewell Filled with Gratitude
Today, Johnson’s heartfelt retirement message reflected what truly made her career special—not just the competition, but the connections.
“People often ask what made me want to play for so long. My answer is simple.
It wasn’t just the roar of the crowd or the thrill of a huge tackle; it was the quiet moments in the locker room, the shared struggles on the training pitch, and the laughter that echoed long after the game was over.”
She paid tribute to the teammates, coaches, and fans who became part of her extended family. In her words, they were not just part of the journey—they were the journey. She called her career a “masterpiece of friendship and shared passion,” a testament to the impact of soccer beyond the field.
Her final request was a simple yet poignant one:
“If we’ve ever played together, interacted after the games in person or otherwise, I would love for you to comment a memory. When I look back on this post, I want to be reminded that football isn’t just a game; it’s a connector, a vehicle for love, acceptance, and happiness.”
More Than a Player, A Legacy
Though the final whistle has blown on her playing days, her impact will resonate far beyond the pitch. Whether through coaching, mentorship, or simply being an ambassador for the game, Johnson’s journey in soccer is far from over.
For now, she steps away with gratitude, pride, and a legacy that will endure. Thank you, Estelle Johnson, for 14 years of excellence, leadership, and love for the game.