The Best US Women's National Soccer Players Ever

The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) has a storied history of dominance in international soccer.

With four FIFA Women’s World Cup titles, five Olympic gold medals, and countless memorable performances, the team has been home to some of the most talented players ever to grace the pitch. Here’s a ranking of the top 13 USWNT players of all time:

13. Rose Lavelle

Rose Lavelle’s rise to prominence was capped by her stunning goal in the 2019 World Cup final. Despite some injury struggles, her creativity and skill have established her as one of the best playmakers in the modern era.

12. Julie Foudy

Julie Foudy’s leadership on and off the field made her a key figure in the USWNT’s success during the 1990s and early 2000s. As a central midfielder, her vision and tenacity were instrumental in winning two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals.

11. Christie Rampone

A stalwart defender and the second-most capped player in USWNT history, Christie Rampone’s leadership and consistency were vital during her 19-year career.

10. Briana Scurry

As one of the best goalkeepers in USWNT history, Briana Scurry’s contributions were pivotal in the team’s 1999 World Cup win. Her crucial penalty shootout save in the final against China remains one of the most iconic moments in soccer history.

9. Carli Lloyd

Carli Lloyd’s legendary hat trick in the 2015 World Cup final is just one highlight of her illustrious career. Known for her tenacity and leadership, Lloyd was a consistent force for the USWNT, winning two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals.

8. Brandi Chastain

Brandi Chastain’s iconic celebration after scoring the winning penalty in the 1999 World Cup final symbolizes the golden era of USWNT soccer. Her versatility and contributions on defense and as a clutch player make her a legend of the game.

7. Megan Rapinoe

Known for her flair, leadership, and clutch performances, Megan Rapinoe was instrumental in USWNT successes, including World Cup wins in 2015 and 2019. Her golden performances earned her the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in 2019.

6. Hope Solo

Hope Solo’s dominance as a goalkeeper is unmatched. With over 100 shutouts in her career, she was a key part of the USWNT’s gold medal wins in 2008 and 2012, as well as their 2015 World Cup victory.

5. Kristine Lilly

Kristine Lilly’s record of 354 caps is a testament to her longevity and consistency. A two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, Lilly’s contributions to the USWNT are immeasurable.

4. Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan’s incredible goal-scoring ability and clutch performances made her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s soccer for years. From her iconic goal against Canada in the 2012 Olympics to her role in the 2019 World Cup victory, Morgan will go down as one of the best forwards ever.

3. Abby Wambach

Abby Wambach’s 184 international goals make her one of the greatest strikers in soccer history. Her fearless play, aerial dominance, and knack for clutch goals earned her a FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2012.

2. Michelle Akers

Michelle Akers redefined what it meant to be a midfielder. With 107 goals and 37 assists, she was a force to be reckoned with, leading the USWNT to World Cup titles in 1991 and 1999.

1. Mia Hamm

Widely regarded as a trailblazer for women’s soccer, Mia Hamm’s 158 international goals and 144 assists were pivotal in putting the USWNT on the map. Her two World Cup titles and three Olympic medals underscore her legendary status.

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