'I Credit Motherhood': Alex Morgan's Incredible Reign As Footballer

In the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, US National football player Alex Morgan felt the mental toll of being away from her one-year-old daughter, Charlie. It didn't take long for Morgan used the same mental and emotional strength as a ladder to return to the field like never before. She is on top of her game today and fans are hooked to their screens to watch her perform, match after match, this FIFA World Cup. 

Morgan, who has now entered the World Cup at her top form, told TIME Studios that sometimes, it's okay to not be in top form, what matters is her heart is in the right place. She credited motherhood for regaining a sense of balance, something that helps her game as well, "I'm not being too hard on myself for minor things. It's fine if I don't do something perfectly. It's okay. Parenthood just makes me feel more balanced all around."

With the World Cup going on and Morgan in her best form, here are 5 things to know about the top US footballer.

Highest Paid Woman Footballer

With an annual income of $7.1 million, Morgan is the world's highest-paid female footballer. As co-captain of the USWNT during the 2023 World Cup, Morgan boasts a valuable endorsement portfolio, collaborating with brands like Hublot, Bodyarmor (Coca-Cola's product), and Michelob Ultra (Anheuser-Busch), even featuring in a Super Bowl commercial with notable celebrities such as Serena Williams and Brian Cox from Succession.

Additionally, as a co-founder of the media company Togethxr, she is actively involved in producing a Netflix docuseries on America's recent World Cup journey, scheduled to be released in the fall. Moreover, she has expanded her philanthropic endeavours through a foundation she launched in March.

Seventh Highest Goal Scorer

With 121 goals to her name, Morgan is the seventh-highest goal scorer in the history of international women's football. While Morgan grabs the fifth position in US football history.

Abby Wambach, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and USA's World Cup winner, holds the second position with 184 goals in the world rankings, while her compatriot Mia Hamm ranks third.

Morgan's Marriage To Servando Carrasco

In the realm of soccer, Alex Morgan and American Football Player Servando Carrasco form the ultimate power couple. They initially crossed paths during their college days and have been each other's steadfast supporters throughout their athletic journeys. In 2014, they tied the knot in a joyous New Year's Eve celebration and later became proud parents to their daughter, Charlie, born in 2020.

Youngest US Footballer in FIFA World Cup

Morgan's international career commenced early. At the age of 22, Morgan held the title of the youngest player on the national team during the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, where the team secured the runner-up position. Despite her young age, she showcased her talent by scoring her first goal during a crucial semifinal match.

Morgan's Role As A Writer

In 2012, Morgan inked a deal with Simon & Schuster to author The Kicks, a captivating four-book series aimed at middle schoolers. The books centre around four young girls and delve into themes of friendship, leadership, and soccer. Morgan expressed her desire for the books to serve as inspiration for young girls and to celebrate her passion for soccer.

The series includes Saving the Team (2013), Shaken Up (2015), Under Pressure (2017), and Switching Goals (2019). Moreover, she adapted the books into a comedy television series titled The Kicks, which aired from 2015 to 2016.

Suggested Reading: Can FIFA World Cup Help Level Playing Field For All Women Footballers?