Becky Sauerbrunn, one of the significant key figures in USWNT history. The center-back was known for her exceptional defensive skills, sharp tactical awareness, and calm leadership under pressure. However, when she was named as the captain of the team, she quickly discovered that leadership wasn’t about loud speeches, fiery moments, and a commanding presence. Her experience as captain turned out to be far different from what she had imagined.

When Becky Sauerbrunn was named captain of the USWNT, she had big shoes to fill. The team had witnessed leaders like Abby Wambach, who was known for her vocal and aggressive leadership qualities. Sauerbrunn, stepping into the captaincy came with the assumption that she should adopt the same approach as Abby’s. “I thought I was going to be like Abby Wambach,” Sauerbrunn shared while in a candid interview. “I am gonna be in your face, I’m going to be Yelling, talk to the media. Like I am just gonna be this huge presence.”  

But as she took on the responsibility of leading the team, Sauerbrunn quickly realized that the leadership style she had imagined for herself felt uncomfortable. Instead of feeling empowered by taking charge and adopting a loud, outspoken role, she felt burdened by the expectations placed upon her. “It was so much work, and I felt so terrible throughout the whole time,” she admitted. Being a calm and composed personality, to be overly vocal or yell felt inauthentic to her. “It just was not authentic and it didn’t work for me,” she said.

Sauerbrunn’s journey as the captain made her realize that leadership comes from being authentic and finding your own way to inspire and lead others. Through her struggles, she realized that leadership isn’t about mimicking the approach of others but about embracing her own strengths and authentic self.

A journey to remember- The Becky Sauerbrunn legacy

Becky Sauerbrunn’s name is synonymous with professionalism, resilience, and leadership in the world of women’s soccer. Known for being a calm and composed individual on the field, she has become a symbol of tactical brilliance and a calm yet powerful leadership style that has influenced the young stars of the team.

Her game-reading ability, and exceptional understanding of positioning, allowed her to anticipate and nullify the opposition’s offensive threats. Her technical ability to distribute and make crucial clearances under pressure has made her one of the top defenders of this generation. These skills have made her an elite defender and a crucial part of the USWNT’s success in major tournaments such as World Cups and Olympics.

Sauerbrunn has led and influenced her team and the future of women’s soccer. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes, reminding them that greatness is not just about talent but about being true to yourself, and doing your best. Becky Sauerbrunn’s triumphant story is not just for her skill on the field but for her enduring off-field impact on women’s soccer and the young generations she has influenced along the way.