## Alex Morgan: The Icon and Legacy of US Women’s Soccer
### Motherhood, Equal Pay, and Using Her Platform
If there was one footballer who embodied US Soccer and its power status in women’s football, it would undoubtedly be Alex Morgan. Throughout her career, Morgan has been a footballing superstar, a celebrity on the red carpet, a cover star of global fashion magazines, an advocate for equal rights, a spokesperson for diverse groups, an inspiration for mothers, and, simply, a winner.
Morgan’s success has coincided with a significant period of growth in women’s football. As her achievements on the pitch helped draw eyes to the game, she capitalized on the spotlight being shone on female athletes. From magazine covers to advertising billboards and even a statue in New York City’s Fox Square, Morgan has been the face of US Soccer.
But her influence goes beyond the glamour and fame. Morgan has used her platform to address important issues, such as motherhood and equal pay. After becoming a mother herself, she continued to perform at the highest level, spearheading the USA attack at last summer’s World Cup while caring for her three-year-old daughter, Charlie. Her insights on motherhood have helped accelerate support within clubs, with several players citing Morgan as a role model.
Aware of her stature outside the game, Morgan has not shied away from speaking out on important matters. In 2021, she called for the National Women’s Soccer League to end the “systemic failure” that enabled a decade of alleged sexual misconduct and harassment. She has also been a leading figure in the battle for equal pay, equal prize money, and equal working conditions within US Soccer.
Morgan’s impact extends beyond the United States. She has questioned moral decisions, such as allowing Saudi Arabia’s tourism authority to sponsor the Women’s World Cup, and has encouraged clubs to improve women’s teams’ facilities and working conditions. Throughout her career, Morgan has shown that she is not just a footballer but also an influential figure who uses her platform to advocate for positive change.
### Earning the Tea, the 13-0, and Her Legacy
Morgan’s influence is not limited to off-field matters. On the pitch, she has delivered numerous memorable moments. In the 2019 World Cup semi-final against England, Morgan scored the winning goal and celebrated by pretending to drink a cup of tea. Her celebration sparked controversy and made headlines, with the New York Post declaring, “Not since Boston dumped it in the sea has England been dissed with tea like this.” Even former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton congratulated the USWNT for “earning that tea.”
In the same World Cup, Morgan also played a key role in the USA’s record-breaking 13-0 victory over Thailand. While some criticized the team’s celebrations as disrespectful, Morgan defended their actions, emphasizing the team’s winning mentality and the significance of achieving their dreams.
But Morgan’s impact goes beyond individual moments. She has consistently performed at the highest level and has been instrumental in the success of the USWNT, helping them win back-to-back World Cups in 2015 and 2019 and Olympic gold medals. Her contributions have earned her numerous individual honors, including being named US Soccer Athlete of the Year twice and being included in the FifPro World XI multiple times.
Off the field, Morgan has been a role model and inspiration for young girls worldwide. Women’s “soccer” has developed considerably due to her influence, and a new generation of girls now idolize Alex Morgan instead of traditional male football stars.
As Morgan announced her retirement, she reflected on her career and defined success as never giving up and giving her all. Her impact on women’s football, both on and off the pitch, is undeniable. Morgan’s legacy will be remembered for her exceptional talent, her advocacy for equality, and her ability to inspire a new generation of female footballers.