Crystal Dunn

Her exceptional performance during her collegiate career from 2010 to 2013 at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, saw her named ACC Athlete of the Year and ACC Defender of the Year in 2012, followed by ACC Offensive Player of the Year in 2013. As a freshman, Dunn started 23 matches, leading her team with nine goals and eight assists. Simultaneously, Dunn achieved international acclaim, becoming a 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Champion, solidifying her status as a formidable talent on the global stage. Dunn transitioned to professional play as the first overall pick in the 2014 NWSL College Draft, joining the Washington Spirit.

She made an immediate and profound impact, securing both the NWSL Golden Boot and the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2015, becoming the youngest player to achieve both honors. In 2017, Dunn moved to England, competing with Chelsea FC, where she contributed to their FA WSL Spring Series victory. She then became a cornerstone for the North Carolina Courage, securing back-to-back NWSL Championship titles in 2018 and 2019, alongside NWSL Shield wins in both years. Her international career continued its ascent, culminating in a 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup Championship with the United States women’s national team.

As a pivotal player for the United States women’s national team and throughout her club career, Dunn is consistently recognized for her exceptional versatility and impactful play across both offensive and defensive roles, marking her as a dynamic and indispensable talent in elite-level competition.