Former US captain Tim Ream announces international retirement after 16 years

Tim Ream's long association with the United States men's national team came to a formal close this week, with the former captain confirming his retirement from international football after 16 years of service.

Tim Ream in United States national team colours

The 38-year-old centre-back, who won 86 caps for his country and wore the captain's armband at this summer's World Cup, made the announcement prior to Tuesday's friendly against Chile. The match, which the USA won 4-2, was staged in Ream's hometown of St. Louis at Energizer Park, where he was welcomed onto the pitch as a special guest before kick-off.

Ream had not been included in Mauricio Pochettino's first squad since the World Cup, and he now intends to prioritise club football. He returned to MLS with Charlotte FC in 2024 after nine years with Fulham.

Speaking at Energizer Park, Ream was candid about the moment and his reasons for stepping away.

"The kids are getting younger and younger, and I don't mean my own kids!" Ream said. "It is retirement. We weren't really sure how we wanted to label it, but, yeah, that's it for me. I'm proud of being a part of something for 16 years, but it is time to step away and stay away from playing with the national team."

Ream sits 23rd in the USA's all-time appearances chart, with Christian Pulisic (90) the only active player above him in that list. He made his senior international debut in 2010 and featured at two World Cups – in 2022 and 2026 – as well as one Copa America and three CONCACAF Gold Cups, losing two finals in the latter competition.