Becky Sauerbrunn, the iron wall of US soccer, has hung up her boots after an epic 16-year run etched in gold. But, legacies aren’t built in comfort zones. Like every other athlete, even Becky had her story of setbacks, and chatting with Sam Mewis on the ‘The Women’s Game’, Becky peeled back the curtain on one raw, heartfelt setback—proof that even legends aren’t immune to life’s curveballs.

The 39-year-old reminisced about an incident with the then-coach of USWNT, Pia Sundhage, who served for the team from 2008-2012. It was the time when Becky was in her early stages with the national team and was ardent to get the minutes on the field. Pia, on the other hand, didn’t see her as one of the players who could make the team.

Becky admitted to being disappointed saying, “You never want to hear that you are not a part of what’s going to make this team the best it can be, but you are close.” Despite being disheartened, Becky realized and accepted the coach’s decisions and put her heart into what was good for the team.

At the end of the coach’s tenure, she wrote individual letters to all her players. In Sauerbrunn’s  letter, Pia wrote, “You could have been a starter, but it’s just not your time.” This meant that the American center-back had the potential but it wasn’t just the ‘right’ time for her. For Becky, this was a lovely gesture from the coach’s side. Rather than dwelling on the coach’s decision she used it as a motivation for growth and worked harder than ever. Over the years she went on to become one of the best players to don the US jersey earning several major accolades for her hard work.

This incident is evidence of Becky’s mental grit and undaunting determination putting a light on the other side of the sports – the setbacks. As they say, greatness is within reach for those who refuse to give up. Sometimes it’s just not your time, but make sure to make it count when it is!

How did the ‘not your time’ moment hone Becky Sauerbrunn’s legacy?

Becky Sauerbrunn’s incident of ‘not your time’ is a perfect example of how sometimes it is not your ‘right’ time, but when it is nothing can stop you from achieving greatness. Trusting the process rather than being disheartened is a sign of mental toughness and determination. For the American center-back, this experience paved the way for greatness and becoming one of the most celebrated players in US soccer.

Rather than being discouraged by her coach’s decisions she focused on her growth and was committed towards making it big. She had her focus on honing her defensive skills and elevating her in-game presence and strategies. She developed her leadership skills, and the ability to read the game and act accordingly.

Her consistent efforts, brilliant performances, and patience paid off, she caught the eyes of the coaches and transitioned into becoming a salient figure in the USWNT. Her story highlights her resilience and unwavering dedication to the game. Now Sauerbrunn’s name is being included in the list of elite players. A perfect example of rejection turned into an opportunity to prosper.