Dear Arsenal Family, Gooner Nation, and everyone who has walked with me through this great game,
As I sit down to write these lines, I am overcome with gratitude, thought, and profound feeling. Football has been my lifelong passion since I was a little child playing a ball in the garden and dreamt of one day wearing Arsenal FC’s red and white jersey. That wish came true, and you have exceeded my expectations every day since. Today, I’d like to use this opportunity to offer my heartfelt gratitude to all of you — my club, our dedicated supporters, and the larger women’s football community — for your love, support, and belief in me throughout the years.
I have felt the strength of Arsenal’s tradition and dedication to growing women’s football since the first time I stepped on the pitch. Arsenal didn’t simply provide me a jersey number or a spot on the team; you gave me a platform, an environment that encouraged my growth as a player and as a person. This club’s ideals, morals, and history have impacted me in ways that will last a lifetime. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, and everyone behind the scenes for challenging, inspiring, and supporting me. We’ve shared successes, faced failures, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
To our fans—oh, where to begin? Your unfailing support, in both sunlight and rain, has buoyed me in ways I cannot completely express. Whether at Meadow Park, the Emirates, or away games across England and Europe, your songs, banners, and voices have made me feel invincible. I’ve always stated that playing for Arsenal is a luxury, but playing for you is the highest honor of all. You remind me, game after game, why we compete for every ball and leave everything on the field.
To the larger women’s football community, thank you for believing in the sport, advocating for its expansion, and inspiring all of us to dream big. Together, we have witnessed women’s football reach unprecedented heights. The sold-out stadiums, the young ladies in the crowd with hope in their eyes, the respect our game now commands—all of us share in this progress. I am humbled to have played a little role in this movement, and I pledge to be an advocate for our sport and future generations.
As I go forward, know that my heart will always beat for Arsenal, our fans, and the wonderful game that brings us all together. I’m eternally grateful for every cheer, handshake, and word of support. You have provided me with immeasurable strength, purpose, and joy.
With all of my love and gratitude.
Leah Williamson