Ali Krieger Admits Last NWSL Pre-Season Evoked Her ‘Mom Guilt’- “I Missed Her 2nd Birthday”

The accolades the best athletes in the world achieve are just the tip of the iceberg. The struggles, coupled with constant failures, could never compel them to give up. However, in an interview with Kate Abdo, former USWNT legend Ali Krieger revealed a moment involving ‘mom guilt’ that will vibrate your notions about the sacrifices women soccer players make.

It was a final shot at her most-awaited NWSL trophy that had evaded her all the time. Ultimately, it led her to miss her daughter’s 2nd birthday, which she revealed by stating, “I missed her second birthday because we had preseason last year, and you know, I’m sitting there thinking, like alright well, let’s just FaceTime and have a little party. You know, it’s like okay, but sometimes it’s like that’s what you have to do for you know to keep a roof over their head.” But with all the pain comes cherishable moments that make up for a perfect bedtime story with her daughter!

Ali Krieger turns triumphant after suffering ‘mom guilt’

After winning two World Cups, a German League, and a UEFA Champions League title, Ali Krieger only had the NSWL remaining on her wish list. The NJ/NY Gotham FC defender led her team to their maiden NSWL Championship in 2023 before hanging up boots. Nevertheless, it was the preseason that put her away from her daughter before achieving the glory.

Ali Krieger has a daughter, and a son named Sloane and Ocean. Sloane turned three recently after celebrating her birthday on February 12, 2024. But around the same time last year, Ali was training at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, with her squad in the NWSL preseason. Hence, she could only FaceTime her daughter, who lived in Montclair, New Jersey. This year, however, the star posted pictures of them celebrating together.

Meanwhile, the defender played a crucial role in Gotham FC’s title win last year. Saving important goals to winning 65.6% of duels, Krieger helped the team clinch the trophy against Megan Rapinoe’s OL Reign. Ali Krieger also became only the fourth person to play 15000 minutes in the American soccer league for women. Just an incredible feat of fitness!

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Additionally, Krieger also revealed that she bonds well with her kids. Her two children were both adopted, and she shared her excitement about the birth of her daughter. She remarked, “It was just like a wow experience, kind of just like I can’t believe we’re in this room right now and like she’s right there.” The 39-year-old is now involved as a pundit with CBS and has also expressed interest in coaching. 

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