Jess Fishlock: Wales legend retires from international football

Fishlock began her career with Cardiff City Women, now called Gwalia United, where she made her first-team debut when she was 15 years old.

After rising through the age group teams in Wales, she made her debut against Switzerland in 2006.

The matches and goals continued until April 2017, with Fishlock becoming the first Welsh footballer, male or female, to win 100 caps, and the 30-year-old marking the historic feat with a goal in a 3-1 friendly win over Northern Ireland at Ystrad Mynach.

In July 2024, she became her country’s top international goalscorer, finishing 45th – bettering Helen Ward’s previous mark – as Wales beat Kosovo 2-0 to book a seeded place in the European Championship qualifiers.

The crowning point of her career came as Wales qualified for its first appearance in a major women’s tournament, with Ryan Wilkinson’s side reaching the 2025 European Championships.

Although Wales would exit Switzerland without a win in their three group matches, it was Fishlock who scored her first goal – in the match against France – to become the oldest scorer in the history of a Women’s Euro finals at 38 years and 176 days.

“Since I kicked my first ball with my brothers at Llanrumney, football has been in my blood,” Fishlock said in a social media post., external

“When I made my debut against Switzerland in Kloten in 2006, I never imagined that I would have the honor of representing Cymru more than 150 times. Every minute was a pleasure, a privilege and an honour.

He added: “The European Championship was the pinnacle of my football career, and seeing the Dragon on the world stage for the first time will be a memory that will remain in my mind for a lifetime.”

“To all the players and staff, past and present, (thank you). It has been an amazing journey. The team has always felt like a family and after all the good and bad times, we have finally achieved what we always dreamed of.”

Fishlock thanked her wife and former teammate Ziara King, whom she married in 2023, and her friends and family for supporting her throughout her career.

She added: “I love you all. Without the support you all have shown, and without you helping me get through the difficult moments, I would never have achieved what I have.”

“To my mother, the woman whose love and guidance allowed me to chase and reach my dreams. She believed in me before I believed in myself.

“To my wife Ziara, for learning about our beautiful country and always supporting me. Thank you.”