ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United defender Kalen Ryden announced on Wednesday he would retire following the conclusion of the 2025 USL Championship season.

A mainstay for United since the 2020 season, Ryden has appeared in 147 matches for United across all competitions, logging 12,376 minutes, with four goals and four assists. He is the club’s all-time leader in clearances (489) and blocks (94) and has continued to play a key role in United’s backline this season.

The 34-year-old has made 285 appearances across his career in all competitions – including 247 appearances across the USL Championship regular season and playoffs –  and has recorded 16 goals and 10 assists. In 2019, he led Real Monarchs SLC to the USL Championship title, while also appearing for Columbus Crew SC, Jacksonville Armada, OKC Energy FC, and the Austin Aztex.

A native of Norman, Oklahoma, Ryden has become a fan favorite in New Mexico for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the crest.

“Kalen Ryden has been the soul of this team – a captain, a competitor, and a true friend to everyone in our organization,” said Peter Trevisani, CEO and Majority Owner of New Mexico United. “What he’s brought to New Mexico United can’t be measured in minutes or wins. It lives in the spirit of unity he inspired and the standard he set for everyone who follows.”