Ali Krieger

A two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Ali Krieger is a formidable defender whose distinguished career spans over two decades. She earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Herman Trophy Award Semifinalist honors in 2006. Transitioning professionally, Krieger spent five years in Germany with 1. FFC Frankfurt (2007-2012).

Following a 2016 trade to the Orlando Pride, she earned a 2017 NWSL Best XI spot and was a finalist for NWSL Defender of the Year, followed by another Best XI selection in 2019. Internationally, Krieger debuted for the U.S. senior national team in 2008. She was a crucial defender in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, playing every minute as the team reached the final, and was named to Fox Soccer’s Best Eleven of the tournament.

defending its title at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, making three appearances, including as a halftime substitute in the final. Krieger’s contributions further led to U.S. victories in the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament and the SheBelieves Cup in 2020. Her impact was recognized with inclusion in the IFFHS CONCACAF Woman Team of the Decade for 2011–2020.

Her final professional chapter culminated triumphantly with NJ/NY Gotham FC, where she captained the team to an NWSL Championship in her retirement season in 2023. This exceptional final year also saw her earn a coveted spot on the NWSL Best XI, cementing her legacy as one of soccer’s most decorated and consistent defenders.