The 23-player US Women’s National Team (USWNT) squad for the 2023 Women’s World Cup squad features a mix of new faces combined with some familiar ones.
Forwards Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe, midfielder Julie Ertz, defender Kelley O’Hara and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher all have two Women’s World Cup titles to their names, while four others were part of the team’s 2019 success in France.
Alongside the experienced core — Morgan, Rapinoe and O’Hara become the 10th, 11th and 12th USWNT players to be selected for four or more tournaments — is a selection of players making their World Cup debuts.
Chief among those 14 first timers selected by head coach Vlatko Andonovski are 18-year-old Alyssa Thompson, who was recently the No. 1 overall pick in the NWSL draft, and Trinity Rodman, daughter of basketball great Dennis.
A selection of famous faces helped to announce the squad in June as the USWNT bids to win its third consecutive World Cup title.
From US President Joe Biden and first lady Dr. Jill Biden to singer Taylor Swift and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, a plethora of star-studded names appeared in a video on the USWNT Twitter page, accompanied with their own congratulatory message.
“For nearly 40 years, the US Women’s National Soccer Team has epitomized what it means to be a champion. From lifting trophies, to fighting for gender equity, these women have been a source of inspiration to Americans of all ages – our family included,” President Biden began the announcement video by saying.
The first lady added: “Joe and I can’t wait to watch this team soar at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Now, we’re so excited to help unveil the 23 players who will represent the USA in Australia and New Zealand.”
