The winds of change are sweeping through the United States women’s national team as they prepare for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, with new coach Emma Hayes at the helm making bold decisions to reshape the squad.
One of the most significant changes is the exclusion of veteran forward Alex Morgan, a stalwart of the team for over a decade. Morgan, who boasts an impressive record with 123 goals in 224 appearances, including pivotal moments in multiple World Cups and Olympics, will not be part of the roster this time around. At 35 years old, her omission signals a shift towards a younger generation of talent.
In Morgan’s place, Hayes has opted for a forward line that showcases the future of USWNT soccer. Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and particularly rising star Jaedyn Shaw, at just 19 years old, but already making waves with seven goals for the national team, highlight Hayes’ strategy of rejuvenation and focus on youth.
Additionally, veteran Crystal Dunn, known for her versatility and previous success at left back, has been listed as a forward, reflecting Hayes’ intention to maximize experience in different roles within the squad. Dunn, along with other seasoned players like Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle, will provide crucial leadership amidst a notably youthful team composition.
The decision-making process for Hayes was undoubtedly challenging, given the stringent roster limit of 18 players for Olympic soccer compared to larger squads in other major tournaments. This necessitated careful selection and tough choices, such as omitting players like Becky Sauerbrunn, a longstanding defensive anchor.
As the USWNT prepares for the Olympic challenge ahead, this blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars underlines a strategic pivot towards sustained success. With a lineup brimming with talent and potential, Hayes and her squad are poised to make their mark in Paris and beyond, embodying the evolving dynamics of elite women’s soccer on the international stage.
USWNT Olympics roster
Goalkeepers: Casey Murphy (19 caps), Alyssa Naeher (104)
Defenders (Caps/Goals): Tierna Davidson (58/3); Emily Fox (41/1); Naomi Girma (32/0); Casey Krueger (49/0); Jenna Nighswonger (9/2); Emily Sonnett (91/2).
Midfielders: Korbin Albert (11/0); Sam Coffey (17/1); Lindsey Horan (148/35); Rose Lavelle (100/24); Catarina Macario (19/8).
Forwards: Crystal Dunn (147/25); Trinity Rodman (38/7); Jaedyn Shaw (14/7); Sophia Smith (48/19); Mallory Swanson (92/34).
