Local U.S. soccer star Abby Wambach hopes to dominate this year’s Olympics by taking home her second gold medal, a possible third for the team, and scoring an additional 20 goals to move her from the second-leading goal scorer to beat out all-star mentor and past teammate, forward Mia Hamm’s 158 goal record.
For the U.S. team, expectations are high. The last two successes at the Olympics opened a door and helped to inspire young women athletes across the country to play soccer. The women’s soccer team has attained superstar status, which has been a boon to the sport but comes with attendant expectations. The players know they will be watched closely and anything less than a gold will represent a major disappointment.
Wambach, a player who is widely considered one of the best in the world, missed the 2008 Beijing Olympics because of a torn tibia and fibula. She is poised to make a comeback and collect her lost gold.
“I am excited to represent my country in this Olympics and to lay it all on the line with my teammates standing next to me in hopes to bring home a gold medal for our fans and each other,” Wambach said.
Even though Wambach is 32, age has not slowed her extraordinary goal-making abilities. Wambach has recently been paired with youngster Alex Morgan, and their duo-scoring success has helped keep team USA one of the favorites. Wambach’s knowledge along with Morgan’s speed have made the USA a nearly unstoppable team. They beat their Japanese rivals in mid-June during the Olympic qualifying tournament, setting up a possible rematch that would be the most anticipated game of the tournament. The Japanese beat the U.S. to win the FIFA World Cup last summer.
Girls across the country will also be watching Wambach’s smooth soccer skills and edge-of your-seat last second comebacks. Previously, when she played in the 2004 Athens Olympics, Wambach won the final game against Brazil in an epic over-time header, securing the U.S team’s gold.
Living in the South Bay has also helped Wambach relax and clear her head for high-pressure games like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics. She planned to soak up the relaxing beach atmosphere until leaving for the London games on July 10.
“I absolutely love when I have time off and can come home to the South Bay,” said Wambach. “I always find it so relaxing to unwind, clear my head by the ocean and get ready for the next training camp. I also love the fact that I can work out in the sunshine, run on the beach or Strand at any time of day or try my luck at sports like SUP [stand up paddle] and beach volleyball. There is always certain to be good company and laughs.”
The U.S Soccer team plays France in Glasgow on July 25, two days before the official opening ceremony. The women’s final gold medal match will be on Aug. 9.
