American professional soccer player Carli Lloyd was a CAM on the field and played for the NJ/NY Gotham FC. She is best known for her dominance in the National Women’s Soccer League and, of course, her time with USWNT. However, the star bid goodbye to the world of soccer on October 6th, 2021, playing her last match against Washington Spirits.
Carli is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, and a two-time FIFA Player of the Year. Lloyd also helped her country win bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Notably, she was also recognized as the highest-paid female footballer in March 2021.
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USWNT No. 10 to go to Lindsey Horan after Lloyd’s retirement
Recently, Lloyd tweeted she will pass on the number 10 to Lindsey Horan now that she has retired. Lindsey Horan is also an American professional soccer player who plays for Portland Thorns FC of the NWSL.
BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL – AUGUST 06: Carli Lloyd of United States celebrates after scoring during the Women’s Group G first round match between United States and France during Day 1 of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games at Mineirao Stadium on August 6, 2016 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. (Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images)Moreover, the Soccer star tweeted about the same.
“Seems fitting as we celebrate your [100th] cap to also pass the #10 to you. Could not be more proud of the player you have become and the player you continue to push yourself to be,” said Lloyd.
👏 @CarliLloyd announced on @LindseyHoran's 100th cap that she will pass on the #🔟 to her fellow teammate 🇺🇸❤️ pic.twitter.com/J7AciAYMuO
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) October 22, 2021
“You are an amazing human being. Never change. I am so honored to pass the 10 to you when I say goodbye on 10/26. Wear it with pride every second you take the field. I will always be with you. I’ll be your biggest fan forever! Love ya, my friend,” she added.
The number 10 is for the attacking midfielder or the playmaker in the game. Undoubtedly, Horan has successfully achieved the same with pride. Now, fans will hope to see her excel and live up to the iconic number on her back.
Everything has come a full circle for Carli Lloyd
Lloyd’s team gave her a fitting farewell in her last game. In her post-match speech, she talked about her illustrious career and how much playing the beautiful sport meant to her.
“It’s been an unbelievable journey, something that I could have never dreamed of.
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“It’s been absolutely incredibly hard. But I’ve loved every moment of it and I think the greatest gift that I have had towards the end of my career is having my family here by my side. So, everything has come full circle,” she said.
Throughout her career, Lloyd has been phenomenal with her performances. As she bids goodbye, she hands her responsibilities to the sensational Lindsey Horan. However, will she fit into the role perfectly or will she fall prey to the expectations of a million fans?
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READ MORE: “It’s Bittersweet”: USWNT Star Carli Lloyd Reflects on Making Peace With Retirement