Traditional soccer powers like France, England and Spain didn’t even qualify. hosted the landmark 1999 World Cup, which led tens of thousands of girls to sign up for youth soccer leagues, only a few countries were considered contenders. But the competition is historically tough. into the tournament, which begins on June 7 in France, facing outsize expectations both on the field and off.Īs the defending champions and top-ranked team, the Americans are favored to win. women’s soccer player of the year, Morgan is the sport’s most marketable American star since Mia Hamm and the linchpin of Team USA’s bid to clinch a second consecutive World Cup title this summer.

The driving range is a favorite escape for Morgan, but she’s spending less and less time there–even as she needs the release more than ever. “This is nice,” Morgan says, exhaling between swings. The ball leaps off the tee and sails toward the netting between the tee and the Hudson River 200 yd. On a drizzly spring evening in New York City, Alex Morgan fixes her gaze on the golf ball at her feet, cocks her arms and then propels them forward with effortless power. The soccer star is primed to lead the U.S.

SHARE Robin Alam-Icon Sportswire via Getty Images United states forward Alex Morgan (13) celebrates with United states forward Lindsey Horan (9) and United states forward Megan Rapinoe (15) after scoring her 100th international goal in game action during an International friendly match between the United states and Australia on April 4, 2019, at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, CO.

Dick Dancers by Alex Morgan