USWNT’s journey into the 2024 Paris Olympics was nothing short of a box of chocolates. It was the first time since 2008 that they went without Alex Morgan, even after the retirement of Megan Rapinoe last year. As disappointing as it may have sounded for Morgan, whom Emma Hayes snubbed, it was a totally contrasting experience for Lynn Williams. The NJ/NY Gotham FC striker known for setting records in the NWSL aimed to make a mark on international soccer. Therefore, even a half-opportunity to play in the Olympics had blown her mind away, according to a recent revelation.

Williams reflected on her nervy beginning to the medal-breaking triumph at the Paris Olympics 2024. Although she wasn’t picked on the main roster, she was allowed to travel as an alternative. While many players’ dreams were shattered, she got a call about her name on the list and expressed gratitude. Speaking on the Women’s Game podcast, she said, “I walk into the room after the phone call. Marley and our two friends are looking at me and I’m kind of in shock. I’m going as an alternate and so Marley’s like that’s incredible,” citing how excited she was after the news.

However, Williams further revealed that it was a bit surprising considering the recent arrival of Hayes. She continued, saying, “I was more just like shocked, I guess. I genuinely thought ‘There is no way I’m going, she doesn’t know me. I wasn’t in the last camp, I’m injured.’ I just felt like there’s just no way and I was obviously so excited,” despite her stellar NWSL career over the last few years.

The 31-year-old also revealed that she already had other plans and was expecting not to be picked for the Games in Paris. She later saw the light when she was brought into the main roster when Catarina Macario was ruled out despite confronting Hayes. The Chelsea forward had issues training because of persistent irritation in her right knee. Meanwhile, Williams made it into the lineup regularly, alongside the attacking trio of Mallory Swanson, Sophia Smith, and Trinty Rodman. It was a calm tournament with an extravagant ending for the Fresno-born.

Lynn Williams breaks her Paris medal and gives a peculiar reason

Initially, it was difficult for Lynn Williams to crack the roster, but was in complete jubilation after making it. She won the Bronze in 2021, registering a goal and an assist in the quarterfinal, and also got into the scorebooks this time by scoring one against Germany. But it was after winning the gold that Williams opened up totally during the celebratory party.

The 2016 NWSL champion reportedly broke the medal when she was dancing. She later claimed that while jumping along with it, the medal fell out and left her searching while others celebrated.

Williams has apparently requested the IOC to replace the medal and is waiting for their response. While she’d appreciate it, she understands if they can’t and emphasizes the significance of the memory. Focus now turns to the NSWL for her, and Gotham is placed well to qualify for the playoffs. But with a relatively blunt season individually, she’d hope to pull her socks up and take her team through to another title.