Carli Lloyd

Carli Michelle Lloyd (born July 16, 1982) is an American professional soccer player and one of the most decorated athletes in U.S. sports history. Playing primarily as a midfielder and forward for the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) from 2003 to 2021, Lloyd became synonymous with American excellence in women's soccer. She earned two Olympic gold medals (2008, 2012) and was a central figure in the USWNT's World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019. Lloyd's technical skill, leadership, and clutch performances in major tournaments made her an invaluable asset to her team. Her hat-trick in the 2015 World Cup final against Japan is considered one of the greatest performances in women's soccer history. Beyond her athletic achievements, Lloyd has been a vocal advocate for equal pay in women's sports and has worked to elevate the profile of women's athletics. Following her retirement from international soccer in 2021, she has continued involvement in the sport through professional leagues and mentorship. Lloyd's legacy extends beyond statistics; she helped transform women's soccer into a mainstream sport in the United States.