Julie Ertz

Julie Ertz, born on April sixth, nineteen ninety-two, is a distinguished American former professional soccer player who made significant contributions to the sport. Her career spanned from two thousand fourteen to two thousand twenty-one with the National Women's Soccer League club Chicago Red Stars, and she briefly played for Angel City FC in two thousand twenty-three. A stalwart of the United States women's national team from two thousand thirteen to two thousand twenty-three, Ertz made her debut during an international friendly against Scotland on February ninth, two thousand thirteen, ultimately earning one hundred twenty-three caps for her country.

Ertz's collegiate journey began at Santa Clara University, where she played for the Broncos from two thousand ten to two thousand thirteen. Her impressive performance led to her being selected third overall in the two thousand fourteen NWSL College Draft by the Chicago Red Stars, where she was honored as the NWSL Rookie of the Year. She played a pivotal role in the United States' triumphs at the FIFA Women's World Cup in two thousand fifteen and two thousand nineteen, showcasing her talent and determination on the world stage.

At just twenty-three years old, Ertz was the second youngest member of the two thousand fifteen World Cup team, behind only Morgan Brian. She played every minute of all seven matches during the tournament and was subsequently named to the FIFA Women's World Cup All-Star Team, solidifying her status as one of the top players in women's soccer. In two thousand seventeen, she transitioned to a center midfield role for both club and country, which led to her being awarded the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year.

Her excellence did not go unnoticed, as she was nominated for the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year in two thousand eighteen and won the prestigious award in two thousand nineteen. After her final appearance in the two thousand twenty-three World Cup, Ertz announced her retirement from international soccer. Off the field, she is married to Zach Ertz, who plays in the National Football League, highlighting a remarkable athletic family.