She’s A Leader- Carli Lloyd Shuts Down Criticism On Lyndsey Horan As USWNT Captain

The former American soccer star, Carli Lloyd has wonderfully displayed her affection and dedication towards the game every time. Llyod played as a mid-fielder in the National Women’s Soccer League and the US national team for NJ/NY Gotham FC.

The athlete ended her sports career playing her last match against Washington Spirits on 6 October 2021. The moment made her quite emotional yet inspirational as ever. Bidding goodbye to the game, Lloyd left behind her footprints in soccer history.

Lloyd’s retirement allowed Horan to take over the number 10 jersey. Despite performing well, a man tweeted, expressing his unwillingness to accept Horan’s captaincy.

Carli Lloyd stands up for Lindsey Horan

Post-retirement, the legendary soccer player, Lloyd, passed down the Number 10 jersey to Lindsey Horan, a member of Portland Thorns FC. Recently, Horan played her first USWNT match wearing the jersey and captain’s armband. The match resulted in a glorious victory scoring 3-0 against Australia.

Doubting Horan’s capabilities, a man came up and commented on her captaincy via Twitter. He suggested that teammate Andi Sullivan is more deserving of the captain armband.

“She’s wearing the 10 and the armband, but she’s not going to be a leader of this team JP. The player behind her in the midfield will be, however,” tweeted the man.

Replying to the tweet, Llyod looked down upon those who pretend to know everything that happens internally. The real scenario is beyond what one could ever assume. Things don’t work the way it seems every time.

“It’s funny how often you voice your opinion thinking you know every single thing about the WNT. You and many others have no clue,” said Lloyd.

Lloyd appreciated and encouraged Lyndsey, calling her a leader.

“The ones in the actual environment know. It’s not always what things appear to be. She’s a leader like many others are.”

Athletes often become victims of endless backlash over social media. However, expressing opinions over social media and attacking athletes isn’t the right way to criticize.

“I’m just ready to live life”- Lloyd

Being in the sports world for over 20 years, the athlete had a tight and fixed routine to follow. After retirement, Lloyd has been living a free life, without any schedule or training session.

“I haven’t run. I haven’t done anything. This feels like sort of an offseason,” said the soccer enthusiast.

“I don’t know if retirement has fully hit me. I’m going to miss World Cups, miss the Olympics. But I think I’m just ready to live life”

Even though retirement feels unreal, Lloyd is ready to start a new journey in her life.

READ MORE: “It’s Bittersweet”: USWNT Star Carli Lloyd Reflects on Making Peace With Retirement