Nigeria forward Gift Monday expressed sadness at leaving Washington Spirit, but said she was excited about joining Boston Legacy FC, following her $500,000 transfer between the two NWSL clubs.
Monday, 24, addressed her departure in an Instagram farewell message to Spirit supporters on her way to Boston, where she will continue her NWSL career.
"This is my last day with the Spirit," Monday said in a video message. "I am going to miss this place so much. I love the team.
"And I am definitely going to miss the fans because the love was massive and I hope that they keep supporting me and I will keep making them proud even though I am no longer playing for them."
In a separate written message on another post, Monday thanked the Spirit for their support during her time at the club.
"Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when the memories mean so much. I'm leaving with a grateful heart, beautiful memories, and a little sadness that words can't explain.
"Thank you for being part of my journey. Though we may be going our separate ways, you will always have a place in my heart. All the best fam, take care and never forget me."
The Nigerian joined Boston in a deal announced on October 8, with Washington retaining a 20% sell-on interest in any future transfer or trade involving the forward.
Monday joined Washington from Spanish club UD Tenerife in March 2025 and scored 11 goals during her time with the Spirit, including two in the playoffs as the club reached the 2025 NWSL Championship game.
She also set an NWSL record in September 2025 when she scored the fastest hat trick from kickoff in league history, completing her three goals in 35 minutes and 52 seconds during a 4-0 victory over Houston Dash.
The performance helped Washington secure a playoff berth, and Monday subsequently scored in both the quarterfinals and semifinals as the Spirit reached their second consecutive championship game.
Her playing time and goal production declined in 2026, however, with the forward recording just one goal and one assist in 18 league appearances before her departure.
Washington sporting director James Hocken acknowledged Monday's contribution to the club, particularly during last season's championship run.
"Since arriving, Monday has been a valuable contributor in our attacking third and played an integral role in helping this club reach the NWSL Championship last season," Hocken said. "We wish her nothing but continued success in the next stage of her career."
Boston general manager Domè Guasch said the club expects Monday to strengthen their attack as they continue to build their squad during the tail end of their inaugural NWSL season.
"Gift brings a unique set of qualities as a forward that will add another dimension to our attack," Guasch said.
"She will contribute to our high press, create opportunities and be dangerous in the final third. She's also a team player, and that matters to us as much as her quality on the pitch."
Monday, who previously played for Nigerian clubs FC Robo and COD United Amazons before moving to Spain, represented Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Her departure also reduces Washington's substantial African contingent, which includes Nigeria midfielder Deborah Abiodun, Ivory Coast forward Rosemonde Kouassi, Cameroon midfielder Monique Ngock and Algeria midfielder Mélissa Bethi.
The forward, who arrived in Boston on Thursday following her return from international duty with Nigeria, is expected to be presented to Boston Legacy supporters on Friday when the club host Racing Louisville at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.