The decision to change one’s surname isn’t as simple as it may seem, especially for women in sports. Throughout the early years of their careers, they build recognition under their family name, only to potentially change it later—though it’s never an obligation. A similar situation has unfolded for Sophia Smith, who is no longer known by that name. The USWNT forward recently tied the knot with her long-time boyfriend, NFL standout Michael Wilson.

That also made her decide to take his last name, making her a Wilson now. Surprisingly, this decision has sparked some backlash among her fans. But if you’re among the skeptics, an old clip of her significant other might just change your mind!

It’s the story of just a day before the USWNT was gearing up to kick off its 2024 Paris Olympics journey. In a presser, the Arizona Cardinals wide receiver was asked how his beloved girlfriend’s success has influenced his own professional journey. The answer, ladies and gentlemen, was no ordinary one. Wilson delivered a two-minute-long speech about the profound impact his significant other has had on his career.

“She’s been able to accomplish every single award you basically can get—minus a few, and I’m sure she’s going to add a gold medal on Saturday,” Wilson admitted. Of course, the NFL superstar’s prediction came true, but this wasn’t the end of his praise for Sophia. Calling her “one in a generation,” the 24-year-old went on to highlight Smith’s major accomplishments, including being the No. 1 overall pick, the youngest-ever MVP, and the first player born in the 2000s to earn a USWNT cap.

He also pointed out that she was the MVP of a national championship in college, a title winner, and the youngest player to record 50 goal contributions in the NWSL. “Any stat or award that you can name outside of the World Cup, she has to her tool belt,” added Michael. Well, it wouldn’t be surprising if her influence has been shaping him ever since he crossed paths with Sophia at Stanford University in 2019.

Add in their extra efforts to build a strong foundation in the early stages of their relationship (a long-distance one, mind you), and you have every reason to call them true couple goals. So, hearing Wilson admit how deeply Sophia’s career achievements have impacted him and inspired him to push further in his own stellar career is a no-brainer.

“It reflects on me because we all heard the saying like, ‘You are who you surround yourself with.’ And ‘You are most like the people that you hang out with on a day-to-day.’ I feel that’s given me confidence,” the 24-year-old admitted. Precisely, it’s that ‘If she can do it, I can do it too’ feeling. In fact, it’s not like Wilson was alone; Smith also supported her significant other.

Both of their schedules used to be aligned before marriage. Be it going to training, coming home, or watching a film, everything was done together yet living separately. The love birds have been each other’s much-needed emotional support. Now one may argue that Michael Wilson didn’t endure as much success as her wife. But mind you, the Cardinals wide receiver believes in his hard work and most importantly, patience.

“That’s the nature of the game. You never know when you’re going to have your big moment. When you know it’s your time to shine, I’ll be prepared to capitalize on it,” concluded Michael.

Starting to change your perspective now eh? Well, that’s how it is. Sophia Smith is receiving a world of backlash over her decision to change her surname. But that’s merely a sacrifice (which may not be the right word to use here) that the 24-year-old NWSL star would make. That’s simply how one defines the true nature of a relationship. In fact, she might have gone beyond in her efforts!

Sophia Wilson is ready to put her soccer career at stake just to build the future of The Wilsons

“That made me smile a lot. All my friends were like, ‘I was almost crying when I watched that video.’ But that’s just who Michael is.” This is how Sophia reacted after hearing that 2-minute speech from her husband. Of course, such words of appreciation are a must to maintain a healthy relationship. But we feel the NWSL superstar is more than just touched by Michael’s act of love. So it’s no surprise to see Sophia planning out for the next big step of their lives.

Recently, they took a noteworthy step by welcoming a mini-dachshund into their home. Don’t call it an easy decision; Wilson initially preferred a larger dog. However, the couple found a middle ground, illustrating their ability to compromise even in the smallest decisions. However, the puppy isn’t the only addition they’ve been considering. For Soph, motherhood holds deep significance. “I feel like, aside from soccer, that’s what I feel is my calling, to be a mom,” she said.

Sure, no better than the Portland Thorns star who would understand the challenges pregnancy would bring. Not to mention the temporary pause it could bring in her career. But for Smith, it’s all about timing. “We’ve been patient for a long time.”

We now eagerly await the day when Mr. and Mrs. Wilson announce their first pregnancy. However, the key takeaway from this look back at their journey is how Michael and Sophia have built their relationship on a foundation of mutual support. Beyond helping each other navigate the demands of their athletic careers, they’re also shaping a shared vision for the future.