Abby Wambach

Mary Abigail Wambach, OLY, is a distinguished retired soccer player whose remarkable career has reshaped women’s soccer in the United States and around the world. A six-time U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year, Wambach rose to prominence during her tenure on the U.S. women’s national soccer team from 2003 to 2015. She scored an unparalleled 184 goals, making her the highest all-time goal scorer for the national team and one of the top scorers in international soccer history.

Her international accolades are extensive, including participation in four FIFA Women’s World Cups (2003, 2007, 2011, and 2015) and two Olympic Games (2004 and 2012), where she secured two gold medals. Notably, during the 2011 World Cup, Wambach’s iconic diving header against Brazil not only equalized a crucial match but also set the record for the latest goal ever scored in FIFA competition. Her outstanding performances earned her the Silver Ball award and the tournament’s Bronze Boot.

At the club level, Wambach achieved significant success with her teams in the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA) and Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS), particularly with the Washington Freedom and Western New York Flash, where she led her teams in scoring multiple times. She became a recognized leader and instrumental in her teams’ achievements, including winning the Founders Cup III in 2003.

Transitioning into coaching, Wambach continues to inspire as she shares her unparalleled expertise and passion for the game through training and mentorship. Her influence extends beyond the field, as her autobiographies “Forward” and “Wolfpack” have resonated widely, emphasizing empowerment and teamwork, thus cementing her legacy as a transformative figure in sports.