It doesn't take much for former United States women's soccer star Alex Morgan to go viral.
Morgan, who won World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, scored 123 goals during her time with the USWNT. Only Abby Wambach, Mia Hamm, Carli Lloyd and Kristine Lilly have scored more goals for the U.S. than her.
In addition to being a legendary player for the U.S. national squad, Morgan is a two-time Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model. She debuted in the iconic magazine in 2014.
"Just to be part of SI Swimsuit, I feel empowered. I’m alongside so many incredible women. This was the first shot of the day, I was still getting the nerves out of me. [The cover image] just shows me how strong I am and how hard I’ve worked, not necessarily to show off my body in any way, but like, I work every single day to compete on the highest stage in my sport. This just shows all the training and like, discipline and commitment and sacrifice," Morgan said. "I think a lot of times, especially online, as a female athlete, I’m put into a box, and I can’t sit out of that box without being judged. I’m unapologetic in the things that I do, the things I want to conquer, and really demanding of what we deserve."
© Kyle Ross-Imagn Images.
Morgan returned to SI Swimsuit in 2019 and was named one of their cover models.
In honor of this year's World Cup, the official Instagram page for SI Swimsuit shared a few throwback photos of USWNT players who posed for the magazine. There was one particular shot from Morgan's time in St. Lucia that made the cut for SI Swimsuit.
Alex Morgan/Instagram.
What is Alex Morgan up to?
Morgan retired from professional soccer after suiting up for the San Diego Wave FC on Sept. 8, 2024.
“What a ride it’s been. I want to thank my teammates. You have constantly challenged me every day and made me better,” Morgan said following the match. “I want to thank my family who have relentlessly supported me, sacrificed so much for me. I love you guys – all 95 of you who are here tonight. And the fans. You pushed me to be my best self every day. You pushed me to be the best soccer player, to be the best mom, to be the best person I could be. There have been so many incredible moments in my career, but this one, this last moment I share on the field with you, I will cherish forever."
Less than a year later, Morgan purchased stake in San Diego Wave FC. She also became a lead capital partner for the new women's indoor team golf league, the WTGL.
