In the pages of sports history, very few figures have transcended their field of play like Alex Morgan. When she announced her retirement, the world of soccer bid farewell not only to a remarkable athlete, but also to a transformational force in women’s sports. Morgan’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by a unique blend of athletic excellence, cultural influence, and social advocacy. Her impact on women’s soccer in the USA and globally has been profound, making her one of the most recognizable and influential individuals in the sport.
A Star Was Born
Born on July 2, 1989, in San Dimas, California, Alex Morgan’s rise to fame was swift and spectacular. Her journey began with youth soccer leagues, where her talent was evident from an early age. Morgan’s prowess on the field was soon recognized by college scouts, which led her to the University of California, Berkeley. At Berkeley, she quickly established herself as a fine player, paving the way for her entry into professional soccer.
In 2010, Morgan was the first overall pick in the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) draft, joining the Western New York Flash. Her impact was immediate, helping the team win the league title in her rookie season. This early success set the stage for a career that has seen her scale unprecedented heights.
The Golden Years
Morgan’s international breakthrough came when she joined the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) and played a key role in their World Cup campaigns. Her performance at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup was crucial, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. However, it was the 2015 World Cup that cemented her status as one of the game’s greats. Morgan’s contributions, including a memorable goal in the final, played a key role in USA’s victory.
The USWNT’s consecutive World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019, along with their Olympic gold medal in 2012, marked an era of dominance with Morgan at the centre of it. Her impressive individual accomplishments — such as being twice named US Soccer Athlete of the Year and being included in the FIFPro World XI six times — further cement her legacy as one of the game’s greatest players.
Beyond the Pitch
While Morgan’s on-field accomplishments are impressive, her influence extends far beyond soccer. Her appearances on the red carpet, magazine covers, and in high-profile advertisements have made her a global icon. Morgan has used her platform to advocate for a variety of social causes, including gender equality and equal pay. Her efforts in an equal pay lawsuit with the US Soccer Federation, as well as her calls for systemic change within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), highlight her commitment to advancing the women’s game.
Morgan’s activism has also addressed broader social issues. In 2021, she called on the NWSL to confront and rectify the systemic failures that led to a decade of alleged sexual misconduct and harassment. Her advocacy for fair treatment and equal opportunities for female athletes has helped bring about significant changes in the sporting landscape. Motherhood and professionalism Morgan’s journey as a mother has been a notable aspect of her career. After giving birth to her daughter Charlie, Morgan continued to excel on the field while balancing her roles as a professional athlete and a mother. Her ability to perform at the highest level while managing the demands of motherhood has been an inspiration to many, showing that it is possible to achieve both professional and personal goals simultaneously. Her second pregnancy, announced shortly before retirement, marks a new chapter in her life. Morgan’s dedication to her family while maintaining her professional commitments underscores her resilience and determination. Legacy and impact As Morgan retires, her legacy is defined not only by her impressive list of accomplishments, but also by her impact on the next generation of female athletes. Young girls around the world now look up to her as a role model, seeing her as a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Morgan’s influence has been instrumental in changing perceptions of women’s football, highlighting the game’s potential and inspiring future stars.
One of the most memorable moments of her career came during the 2019 World Cup semi-final against England, where Morgan’s goal and subsequent tea-drinking celebration became iconic. This playful yet rebellious gesture captured the spirit of her competitive nature and added to her already rich legacy.
Her career also included a stint with Tottenham Hotspur, where she is rumoured to have played a role in advocating for improvements to the women’s team’s facilities. Such actions reflect Morgan’s commitment to raising the standards of women’s football globally.