Xan de Waard nears retirement after final World Cup matches

Dutch field hockey player Xan de Waard is approaching the end of her professional career, with only two matches remaining in the World Cup hosted in the Netherlands. The 30-year-old midfielder and former captain of the national team is set to face Belgium in the semi-finals, followed by either the final or the bronze medal match.

De Waard stated that she is not focused on her upcoming retirement, treating the remaining games as standard matches while enjoying the experience of her final tournament. If the Dutch team successfully defends their title, De Waard will become the only player in the sport to win four consecutive World Cups.

Following her retirement, De Waard plans to take a break from the sport and travel before deciding on her next steps. She noted that while she will miss the team, she recognizes the high quality of the squad and the emergence of new players ready to fill her role.