A Toronto FC legend has announced he will be hanging up his boots at the end of the season.
TORONTO, Canada—A Toronto FC legend will be hanging up his boots after eight years at the club, as Justin Morrow announced today that he will be retiring at the end of the 2021 MLS campaign, completing a highly decorated 12-year career.
The 34-year-old fullback spent the past eight seasons with TFC, ranking second all-time in appearances made, earning Best XI honours during the club’s 2017 Treble-winning season. During his time in Toronto, he registered 18 goals and 20 assists, making him the most prolific attacking defender in club history—including a memorable hat-trick on Sept. 30, 2017 in a 4-2 win over the New York Red Bulls at BMO Field.
Morrow was one of four players to register over 200 appearances for the club, along with Jonathan Osorio, Michael Bradley, and Mark Delgado.
In 2020, Morrow was named executive director of Black Players for Change (BPC) following the organization’s launch on June 19. BPC were awarded the 2020 MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year.
“Both on and off the field, Justin has been a model professional,” said Toronto FC President Bill Manning in a press release. “He will retire as one of the best players to ever wear a TFC jersey, a gentleman and a great family man who gave everything he had for the club and the city.”
Morrow originally joined Toronto via a trade with the San Jose Earthquakes ahead of the 2014 season. Prior to that, he spent four seasons with the Quakes, appearing in 73 matches. Internationally, Morrow earned four caps for the United States Men’s national team.
“Justin has had an exceptional career. He has been the type of player that gives everything he has and more – to his teammates, coaches, the environment, and the fans. I am so happy that I had the chance to work with him, and get to know him,” said Toronto FC General Manager Ali Curtis. “And, while his contributions on the field have been important over the years, I believe his greatest contributions will be off the field in the years to come. We have seen a glimpse of that in his role with Black Players for Change, but I really feel he has a bright future.”
Based on speaking to those around the club, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Morrow return with Toronto FC in some sort of coaching or front-office capacity in the near future.
But for now, we’ll enjoy the time he has left as a player sporting the TFC crest, and thank you Justin — for everything you have given to this club and our city.
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