Carli Lloyd, the two-time World Cup champion, reflected on her journey during her induction into the US Soccer Hall of Fame on Sunday, nearly four years after her retirement. In a heartfelt speech, Lloyd addressed the impact of her single-minded dedication to soccer on her personal relationships, specifically apologizing to her teammates and family for often being emotionally unavailable during her career.
Lloyd acknowledged that her intense focus on goals sometimes made her come across as emotionally detached. She noted, “I wasn’t there to make friends,” indicating how her drive for success often overshadowed her personal connections. Looking back, she expressed a desire for greater vulnerability and openness, saying, “I wish I had let more people understand me over the years.”
Since retiring, Lloyd has embraced a new perspective, largely influenced by the birth of her first child, Harper. She described the profound change motherhood has brought to her life, allowing her to be “fully engaged” and present in ways she could not during her playing days. This shift in her personal life led to reflections on missed family milestones and moments, as she confessed to feeling the weight of those absences.
In her speech, Lloyd poignantly questioned whether the sacrifices she made during her career were worth it, particularly the strain on her family relationships. Despite the challenges she faced, she concluded with a sense of affirmation about her journey, stating, “As lonely and difficult as the journey was at times, I would do it all over again.”
Lloyd’s induction was met with great recognition, securing 47 out of 48 votes, alongside fellow inductees including former goalkeeper Nick Rimando and notable figures like Mary Harvey and Chris Armas.
This transformation not only highlights the personal growth of Lloyd after her retirement but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices many elite athletes make in their pursuit of excellence. Her story is a beacon of hope, illustrating how one can evolve and find fulfillment beyond one’s career. As athletes transition into new phases of life, they often find renewed purpose and connection, shaping their legacies not just through achievements but also through personal growth and relationships.