Becky Sauerbrunn, born on June sixth, nineteen eighty-five, is a distinguished American former professional soccer player renowned for her role as a center back. Her leadership qualities shone brightly as she co-captained the United States national team alongside Carli Lloyd from two thousand sixteen to two thousand eighteen, and later took on the captaincy from two thousand twenty-one until two thousand twenty-three.
Her soccer journey began at the collegiate level with the Virginia Cavaliers, where she honed her skills before embarking on a professional career with the Washington Freedom in Women's Professional Soccer in two thousand ten. Following the establishment of the National Women's Soccer League in two thousand thirteen, Sauerbrunn made her mark by leading FC Kansas City to two of the league's inaugural three championships, earning accolades as NWSL Defender of the Year three times during her tenure with the team and once with Utah Royals FC.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sauerbrunn achieved remarkable success with the national team, securing gold medals at the two thousand twelve London Summer Olympics, the two thousand fifteen FIFA Women's World Cup, and the two thousand nineteen FIFA Women's World Cup. She also played a pivotal role in the team's journey to a second-place finish at the two thousand eleven FIFA Women's World Cup, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the sport.
In her final chapter as a player, Sauerbrunn celebrated her third championship victory with Portland Thorns FC before announcing her retirement in two thousand twenty-four. Her legacy as a formidable defender and a respected leader in women's soccer continues to inspire future generations.