OKLAHOMA CITY — Ali Aguilar, former member of the U.S. Women’s National Team (WNT) and Tokyo Olympic silver medalist from Orangevale, California, has announced her retirement after a remarkable career with USA Softball and professional leagues.
“Retiring from a sport that has been my entire life feels like stepping into the unknown. Standing on the Olympic stage in 2021, I felt like I had reached the pinnacle,” Aguilar shared on Instagram. “I achieved what little Ali dreamed of, but I found myself asking, ‘Is this it? What now?’ I was confident in my identity, but the same passion became harder to find.”
A Storied International Career
Aguilar began her international career with the Junior Women’s National Team in 2013 and helped Team USA secure two Pan American Games gold medals (2019, 2023), two World Championship golds (2016, 2018), and a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Over 12 years, she represented the U.S. on more than 10 WNT rosters, competing in three World Championships, two Pan American Games, and two World Cups of Softball.
“Ali Aguilar was the missing piece that helped us capture the gold medal in Surrey, BC, in 2016,” said former WNT head coach Ken Erickson. “Her contributions both offensively and defensively energized the team. Her partnership with Delaney Spaulding formed one of the strongest middle infield duos in USA Softball history. Her continued success kept us competitive on the international stage for the next nine years.”
Exceptional Skills and Achievements
Known as a formidable opponent at the plate and in the field, Aguilar appeared in over 60 games for Team USA. Across 212 plate appearances, she posted a .362 batting average, making a significant offensive impact. At the 2023 Pan American Games, she hit .526, recorded one double, six RBIs, and seven runs scored, earning a spot on the All-Pan Am Team.
“I’ve been blessed with unforgettable moments and incredible people,” Aguilar wrote on Instagram. “I’ve gained lifelong friends through this sport. Thank you for supporting me through the highs and lows. I’ll carry these memories forever. I’ll always be Ali A., and I’ll always love this sport and its community. By faith, I’m stepping into a new version of myself, and I’m excited for what comes next.”
Professional Career and Influence
Aguilar’s influence extended beyond Team USA as she completed the inaugural season with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) Talons, winning the league championship. She has played with Athletes Unlimited since 2021 and previously competed professionally in the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) league and the Japanese Softball League.
Career Statistics
Across her international career, Aguilar compiled impressive stats:
- Total Games Played: 64
- Plate Appearances: 212
- At-Bats: 163
- Batting Average: .362
- On-Base Percentage: .476
- Slugging Percentage: .638
- Hits: 59
- Doubles: 6
- Home Runs: 13
- RBIs: 50
- Runs Scored: 55
Her consistent performance and leadership solidified her legacy as one of USA Softball’s most impactful players.