US women’s soccer legend Alex Morgan will not be on the team’s roster for the Olympic Games next month in Paris, signaling a shift in the women’s national team. Head coach Emma Hayes, leading the squad for the first major tournament, announced the 22-player roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics on Wednesday. The roster includes 18 players heading to Paris and four alternates, with only eight players from the 2020 Olympics and 10 from the 2023 World Cup team.
Morgan's exclusion reflects the team's transition after recent tournament setbacks. The team, previously dominant, faced challenges in the Tokyo Games and the 2023 World Cup. Hayes, appointed post-World Cup, aims to guide the next generation to meet the team's high standards.
Despite her disappointment, Morgan expressed support for the team, emphasizing her pride in representing the country. Hayes acknowledged Morgan's contributions but emphasized the need for a new direction with less experienced players for development.
The roster comprises goalkeepers Casey Murphy and Alyssa Naeher; defenders Tierna Davidson, Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Casey Krueger, Jenna Nighswonger, and Emily Sonnett; midfielders Korbin Albert, Sam Coffey, Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, and Catarina Macario; and forwards Crystal Dunn, Trinity Rodman, Jaedyn Shaw, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson. The alternates are goalkeeper Jane Campbell, midfielders Hal Hershfelt and Croix Bethune, and forward Lynn Williams.
Hayes emphasized the roster's balance, considering factors crucial for the Olympics. Durability and adaptability were key criteria, with many players capable of playing multiple positions to manage the short turnaround between matches in France.
Hayes highlighted the importance of adaptability due to the tight schedule, ensuring the roster's versatility and depth for the intense 17-day period of the Olympics.
