Alex Morgan’s Exit Strategy: Building a Bright Future for the Next Generation of USWNT Stars
This summer, Alex Morgan’s presence has been inescapable, with her face on Coca-Cola commercials and Reese’s Instagram ads. Despite her media omnipresence, Morgan’s omission from the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) roster for the Paris Olympics was unexpected, especially given her status as a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. This surprising decision by head coach Emma Hayes marks a pivotal moment in Morgan’s illustrious career, highlighting the natural transition toward younger talent on the team.
Morgan’s career with the USWNT has been nothing short of legendary. Since 2011, she has participated in every major tournament, winning two World Cups and an Olympic gold medal, while becoming the eighth highest-scoring player in women’s international soccer. At 35, Morgan is on the downslope of her career, having been a key figure and leader for the team for many years. Her exclusion from the Olympic squad in favor of emerging stars like Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman signals a strategic shift in the team dynamics.
While Morgan’s on-field contributions are undeniable, her impact as a leader and advocate off the field is equally profound. She has been instrumental in negotiating collective bargaining agreements that secured better pay and working conditions for the USWNT, advocating for parental leave and other benefits. Her leadership extended beyond soccer, as she championed LGBTQ+ rights and equality within sports, setting standards for clubs and federations worldwide. Morgan has consistently used her platform to advocate for social justice, highlighting her commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
Morgan’s ability to balance performance, advocacy, and marketability is remarkable. Despite the challenges female athletes face in achieving financial security, Morgan has leveraged her talent and privilege to build a successful brand. She ranks among Forbes’ highest-paid female athletes, with endorsements estimated at $7 million in 2023. Co-founding TOGETHXR, a media and commerce company with other prominent athletes, further demonstrates her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to empowering women in sports.
As Morgan navigates her career’s twilight, her influence continues to shape the USWNT. Her leadership style has left an indelible mark on players like Lindsey Horan, who has taken on the mantle of team captain. Morgan’s legacy as a role model, advocate, and player is a blueprint for success that future generations can follow.
The transition to a new era of USWNT stars is underway, with Rodman, Smith, and Swanson poised to carry the torch. These players have already captured fans’ imaginations, and their performances will likely define the team’s future success. As the USWNT competes in the Olympics, the focus shifts to these emerging talents while Morgan remains a key figure, both on and off the field.
Morgan’s departure from the international stage is a testament to her lasting impact on the USWNT. While her absence creates an Alex Morgan-shaped hole, it also presents an opportunity for new leaders to emerge. Morgan’s tireless advocacy and dedication have set the stage for a team that can thrive without her, ultimately strengthening the squad’s foundation for years to come. Her legacy will be remembered as a cornerstone of progress, ensuring the USWNT’s continued success.
