Brisbane Roar star Laini Freier has retired from football at the age of 24, following a breakout season in the Ninja A-League.
The attacking midfielder joined twin sister Laini Freier at the Roar for the 2024-25 campaign and burst onto the scene with back-to-back hat-tricks in the first two starts in the Ninja A-League.
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Freier scored seven goals in nine games for Brisbaen to earn a call-up to the CommBank Matildas squad in February, where she made her senior international debut just months into her professional career.
Currently playing for NPL Queensland side Brisbane City FC in the Ninja A-League off-season, Freier has announced she will walk away from the game at the conclusion of the NPL season to pursue a career outside of football.
“I have been playing football since the age of 5 and feel like it’s time to move on with my life. I have just recently gotten married, built my house with my husband and want to focus more on my work career,” Freier said.
“I just want to be Sharn’s number one supporter wherever she goes, build my family life and spend my time with the ones I love. Football will always have the best memories for me but I’m ready to move on.
“Last year was by far the best year when it has come to my football. I signed my first professional contract with Brisbane Roar, had Sharn by my side and scored back-to-back hat-tricks, which I will never forget. It was an awesome moment, and then I had a dream come true to represent my country as well.
“Thank you to all the fans, I am so grateful that I was able to make my professional debut in front of the Brisbane fans, the best fans in the league. I wish the girls nothing but the best for the future and will be cheering them on every step of the way.”
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Despite spending just one season at the club, Freier departs Brisbane Roar having made a significant impact through her whirlwind debut campaign in the Ninja A-League.
Roar head coach Alex Smith said Freier’s decision to step away from football showed conviction, and wished the departing star all the best for the future.
“When I first joined the club, Laini was a player I immediately wanted to bring in as I knew how talented she is.”
“I am happy she got to excel in the (Ninja A-League) last year. Laini has a conviction on and off the pitch that I respect, and this decision is no different.
“It’s a rare thing at a young age to know what you want and go for it, so I of course wish her all the best and she will always be part of the Roar family.”
