Remember how the USWNT didn’t quite make it last year at the World Cup in Australia? Well, fast forward to the Paris Olympics and they totally turned things around! With Emma Hayes leading a fresh squad and expectations not set too high, we’re now celebrating a shiny gold medal – all thanks to her. And for Hayes, this win hits differently on an emotional level.

Just a few months ago, she snagged the Women’s Super League title with Chelsea before stepping up as head coach of the Star and Stripes. But trust us when we say this Olympic gold means a bit more special to her. After that epic victory over Brazil, Emma shared some heartfelt thoughts: “I’ve been at a club for 12 years where I had huge success but I was desperate to do well for this country.”

Then she really got into it by adding something sure to resonate with every American. Emma Hayes added, “I’m emotional because it’s not every day you win a gold medal. I love America. It made me.”

For Emma Hayes, winning this Olympic gold is even more special when you think about her late dad Sid, and how he influenced her to take the USWNT job and lead them at the Olympics. If you’re still in the mood for some heartwarming tales, let’s dive into the emotional backstory of Emma’s journey to becoming the USWNT boss!

Emma Hayes fulfills her late father’s wish

Ahead of the Paris Olympic campaign, Emma Hayes shared such a sweet story that hit home. The 47-year-old opened up about how her dad has always been her number one fan and how grateful she is for everything he’s done for her. There’s this adorable tale about her dad, Sid—he used to keep track of all the players who made it to the Olympics under Hayes’ coaching. Why did he do that? Because he believed that one day his daughter would be at the helm of an Olympic team herself!

Fast forward to now: not only did the ex-Chelsea boss coach the USWNT at the Paris Olympics, but she also snagged a gold medal, making Sid’s dream come true. He was even the one who encouraged her to take on the USWNT job if it ever came up before he passed away. “If the United States comes up girl, are you going to take it?” was the question Sid asked Emma before passing away. It is such a touching story and adds so much emotion to their big gold medal win!