Nick Lima, a 31-year-old defender and San Jose Earthquakes homegrown product, has retired from professional soccer after nine MLS seasons.

The California native began his MLS career with San Jose, later played for Austin FC and New England Revolution, and returned to San Jose in 2025 for 11 MLS appearances before retiring.

Across his MLS career, Lima registered nine goals and 15 assists in 231 regular-season appearances, with 189 starts.

Lima earned nine caps for the United States men’s national team during his career.

In his retirement message, Lima expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play professionally and said he is ending his career on his terms, thanking teammates, coaches, staff, fans, and especially the Earthquakes where he began and concluded his career.

San Jose’s sporting director and head coach Bruce Arena praised Lima as an outstanding player and professional, wishing him well in his future endeavors.

The retirement report is attributed to Field Level Media.