Cardiff, Wales - As the sun sets on an illustrious international career, Jess Fishlock, a true icon of Welsh football, is preparing to bid farewell to the national team in a friendly match against Australia on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The game at Cardiff City Stadium promises to be an emotional affair, celebrating a player who has not only reached unprecedented heights for her country but has also been a driving force in the growth and recognition of women's football in Wales.

Fishlock's journey with Wales began in 2006, and over the past two decades, she has become synonymous with the national team. She holds the record for the most international appearances (165) and is the all-time leading goal scorer (48) for Wales, surpassing legends in both the men's and women's game. Beyond the statistics, Fishlock's influence extends to her unwavering commitment, leadership, and passion for the sport.

"I think what we're all realizing and recognizing now is that she is a generational player that has given everything for her country," said Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson.

Her decision to retire from international football came after much deliberation, following Wales' historic participation in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, their first major international tournament. Fishlock scored Wales' first-ever goal in the tournament against France, also becoming the oldest player to score in the competition.

"I made the decision after the Euros," Fishlock stated. "It wasn't a decision that I made lightly, and it took me a couple of months to really figure out what I wanted to do...In the end, I just felt that I wouldn't be able to commit to the cycles as much as I have in the past. That's just not who I am. If I commit to something, I like to commit to it full throttle, and I just felt like I couldn't really do that".

Fishlock's career has seen her play for numerous clubs across the globe, including Cardiff City Ladies, Bristol Academy, AZ Alkmaar, Glasgow City, Melbourne Victory, FFC Frankfurt, and Seattle Reign FC. Her success at the club level includes multiple league titles in Europe, Australia, and the United States, as well as a UEFA Women's Champions League medal with FFC Frankfurt. In 2021, she was named the NWSL Most Valuable Player while playing for Seattle Reign FC.

Despite her club achievements, Fishlock has always prioritized her commitment to Wales. She has been a vocal advocate for improving women's football in Wales, pushing for better support and facilities for the next generation. Her dedication was recognized in 2018 when she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to women's football and the LGBTQ+ community.

As Fishlock prepares for her final match, the focus is not only on celebrating her career but also on the future of Welsh football. Wilkinson has named a squad with eight uncapped players for the upcoming friendlies against Australia and Poland, signaling a new era for the team.

"What also makes this decision a lot easier is the group and the players that we have and the manager that we have," Fishlock said. "When you look at what we've been able to create and the players that we have now, I know we're in good hands. They're more than capable of creating their own memories and their own dreams now".

The match against Australia holds extra significance for Fishlock, having played for Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory in the Australian W-League. It provides a fitting end to her international career, allowing her to say goodbye on home soil against a nation where she also made a significant impact.

Jess Fishlock's legacy extends far beyond her achievements on the pitch. She has inspired countless young girls and boys to pursue their footballing dreams and has been a role model for her commitment, passion, and dedication. Her influence will continue to shape Welsh football for years to come, and her name will forever be etched in the nation's sporting history.