Former Soccer Great Hope Solo Stepping Back On The Pitch
She’s been out of the game since she was forced to retire back in 2016. She’s had past disagreements with former soccer teammates and with the U.S. Soccer federation. But now she’s looking to put the past behind her and try something new. Former soccer great Hope Solo is stepping back onto the pitch. Solo will be entering her own team, dubbed “Solo FC,” into play at The Soccer Tournament (TST) in Cary, NC this June.
Prior to being forced to retire, from 2000 to 2016, Solo was the goalkeeper for the U.S. women’s national soccer team. However, since that time she hasn’t been able to take advantage of any partnerships with U.S. Soccer and commentating. After leaving the Seattle Reign in 2016 she kept her distance from the game. In fact any post soccer opportunities were denied her, due to being at odds with U.S. Soccer.
But Solo is looking to start anew with TST, the annual winner-take-all event features a $1 million grand prize. This event will mark the first time Solo — considered the greatest goalkeeper in U.S. women’s soccer history — has played in any kind of soccer competition in nearly a decade.
“I’ve sat here in the mountains enjoying my lifestyle, enjoying my family, waiting for the right opportunity to get back and involved in a meaningful way,” Solo, who now lives in Asheville, told The News & Observer. “I think, in that moment, when [TST CEO] Jon Mugar came to me, I didn’t have too many questions to ask. I just sat there saying, ‘I literally can’t say no to this.’”
Many fans would love to see Solo competing against some of her former teammates. And that can happen because the U.S. Women squad includes three-time Olympic gold medalist Heather O’Reilly. Her squad is also the reigning TST women’s champions.
Former Soccer Great Hope Solo Stepping Back On The Pitch
Solo is aware of the narratives that will likely form around her and O’Reilly’s team, but she’s not letting it consume her.
“I’ve done a couple of interviews already, and I can see the headlines,” Solo said. “I see where they’re heading right now. Everybody wants to see this ‘Hope Solo vs. old U.S. soccer teammates.’”
Despite any potential drama, Solo is training hard to prepare for her return to the game. Solo shared that the whole family now joins her on the soccer field. Her husband kicks to her as she practices in goal, with their kids watching from the sidelines. In addition, she is assembling a squad of her own to consist of a blend of young stars, seasoned veterans and unheralded players from underrepresented countries and communities.
For Solo, TST represents something more than just a return to playing — it’s an opportunity to help grow the women’s game. Hopefully, the return will be a happy one for Hope.
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