Black History in U.S. Women's Soccer

The USWNT is the most successful national team in the history of women’s soccer and is arguably the most powerful dynasty in all of sports. However, the USWNT would not have even achieved half of its success if it weren’t for the Black women that devoted their careers towards representing their country, even when “freedom and justice for all” had some exceptions.

We cannot forget the talent of Brianna Scurry, who had a commanding presence between the pipes that led the USWNT to the 1999 World Cup and 1996 and 2004 Olympic Gold Medals. Shannon Boxx gave the USWNT all she had, holding the backline through 3 World Cups and 3 Olympics. Of late, players like Crystal Dunn, Christen Press, and Mallory Pugh have taken our breath away with otherworldly goals, near-impossible defensive saves, and their relentless determination. 

Even away from American Black women, players like Wendi Renard, Kadeisha Buchanan, and Nikita Parris have dazzled for club and country, and have helped make space for Black women in the sport. One cannot discuss Black women in women’s soccer without mentioning Marta, who has won FIFA Women’s Player of the Year a record-breaking 6 times and is frequently referred to as the best women’s player of all time. We owe all the success in the women’s game to Black players; past, present, and future.

It is no secret that the US Soccer Federation has not invested equitably in minority and low-income soccer clubs, particularly in the women’s game. The next generation does realize this, though, and as they fill the shoes of the USWNT icons that came before them, they are working to make the women’s game and the USWNT a better place for Black athletes. 

Players are looking to uplift Black voices in the game by sharing content from the Black Women’s Player Collective, a mini-pitch working to center Black voices and their experiences, so we can all work to remove harmful attributes from our game. Through beginning the conversation, we are taking the first step towards sustained change.
We must hope that this generation continues to meet this moment and make soccer a place for everyone here in the USA. We can ensure this by acknowledging those who paved the way and celebrate those who continue to shine.