The 34-year-old’s absence is the most notable snub of coach Emma Hayes’ squad.
Alex Morgan, a highly decorated player in U.S. women’s soccer, was left off the American roster for the upcoming Olympics in France, announced on Wednesday. The decision was made by first-year coach Emma Hayes, who aims to restore the team’s elite status after a disappointing World Cup and bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Morgan, who started all four matches in the 2023 World Cup but failed to score, expressed her disappointment in a statement posted on X, emphasizing her pride in representing the country.
Today, I’m disappointed about not having the opportunity to represent our country on the Olympic stage. This will always be a tournament that is close to my heart and I take immense pride any time I put on the crest.
In less than a month, I look forward to supporting this team… pic.twitter.com/NAXmQnNN8B
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) June 26, 2024
Hayes acknowledged the competitive selection process, stating that choosing the 18-player roster was challenging. She expressed excitement for the selected group, despite the tough choices.
Morgan, known for her 123rd-minute header in the 2012 Olympics that secured a victory over Canada, promised to support her teammates from home.
The roster includes:
- Goalkeepers: Alyssa Naeher, Casey Murphy.
- Defenders: Tierna Davidson, Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Casey Krueger, Jenna Nighswonger, Emily Sonnett.
- Midfielders: Korbin Albert, Sam Coffey, Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, Catarina Macario.
- Forwards: Crystal Dunn, Trinity Rodman, Jaedyn Shaw, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson.
Alternates include goalkeeper Jane Campbell, midfielders Hal Hershfelt and Croix Bethune, and forward Lynn Williams. The team has two exhibition games against Mexico and Costa Rica before the Olympic opener against Zambia on July 25. Hayes’ squad aims to avoid a third consecutive Olympics or World Cup without a top prize.