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Jeff Kassouf
CHESTER, Pa. — Fans at Subaru Park on Thursday were greeted with numerous tributes to Alex Morgan’s remarkable career with the United States national team. A pink pre-wrap headband station and Morgan bobbleheads were among the highlights for the first fans entering the stadium.
U.S. Soccer celebrated Morgan’s accomplishments before the USWNT’s match against Portugal, held at the venue where she netted her first of 123 international goals back in 2010, placing her fifth in the program’s history.
Retiring as a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist last year, Morgan’s impact remains significant.
“You can’t go anywhere in this country without them mentioning Alex Morgan, and the sport owes her a great deal of gratitude because that visibility is crucial for our players,” stated USWNT head coach Emma Hayes the day before the match. “She is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable figures in our sport in recent years.”
Among the attendees at Morgan’s tribute were former teammates Abby Wambach, Megan Rapinoe, Ali Krieger, and Kelley O’Hara. Forward Trinity Rodman, who is sidelined due to a sprained MCL, also showed her support for Morgan from the sidelines.
U.S. Soccer president Cindy Parlow Cone and federation CEO JT Batson presented Morgan, alongside her family, with flowers and a framed jersey featuring the number 224, signifying her total appearances for the team.
“She achieved everything there is to accomplish,” Hayes commented. “Morgan embodies what this program stands for. Her drive and determination to excel at the highest level is unmatched, and she is an incredible asset to her family.”
Before the match, the stadium’s videoboard displayed a montage of current USWNT players responding to trivia about Morgan’s career and sharing what she means to both them and the team.
“She has had an immense impact on me and the sport,” said USWNT forward Alyssa Thompson on Wednesday. “Her contributions have elevated the game. I know my current position is thanks to players like her — particularly Alex — who advocated for equality and equal pay.”
“I aspire to carry on her legacy. What she accomplished on the field is unique and inspiring.”
Last month, the San Diego Wave retired Morgan’s No. 13 jersey, marking the end of her club career in San Diego, where she has built a home for her family. Earlier this year, she also became a minority investor in the team.
A second video tribute played during halftime featured her daughter, Charlie, sweetly saying, “Good night, we out.”
Despite the celebrations surrounding Morgan, Portugal pulled off an unexpected victory against the U.S., rallying from a goal down to win 2-1.