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Becky SauerbrunnAmerican soccer player
Date of Birth: 06.06.1985
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Becki Sauerbrunn: Trailblazing Defender and American Football Star
- Collegiate Career at the University of Virginia
- Club Career
- Washington Freedom (2009)
- Røa IL (2009)
- Return to Washington Freedom (2010-2011)
- Sky Blue FC (2012)
- D.C. United (2012)
- Kansas City and Utah Royals (2013-2019)
- Portland Thorns (2020-Present)
- International Career
- Personal Life
- Legacy
Becki Sauerbrunn: Trailblazing Defender and American Football Star
Early Life and EducationBecki Sauerbrunn was born to Jane and Scott Sauerbrunn in St. Louis, Missouri. Inspired by her older brothers, she began playing soccer at the young age of 12, eventually joining the Marin FC club. Sauerbrunn's talent was evident from an early age, as she helped her high school team win the Missouri State Cup four times and the Mid-America Regional Championship in 2000.
Collegiate Career at the University of Virginia
From 2003 to 2007, Sauerbrunn played for the University of Virginia "Cavaliers." In her freshman year, she was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Following a redshirt season in 2004 due to international competition, she returned to score her first collegiate goal in 2005. Sauerbrunn's stellar performances earned her numerous accolades, including All-ACC First Team and All-America Second Team honors.
Club Career
Boston Renegades and Richmond Kickers Destiny (2005-2007)During the summers, Sauerbrunn played for the Boston Renegades and Richmond Kickers Destiny in the W-League. She made significant contributions to both teams, playing a total of 24 matches and scoring three goals.
Washington Freedom (2009)
In 2009, Sauerbrunn was drafted by the Washington Freedom in the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) league. She made her debut in March and went on to play in all 20 regular season matches. The Freedom advanced to the playoffs that year, but Sauerbrunn's season ended abruptly after a knee injury.
Røa IL (2009)
After the WPS season, Sauerbrunn signed with Norwegian club Røa IL. She made her debut in September and helped the team win the Norwegian Toppserien championship.
Return to Washington Freedom (2010-2011)
Sauerbrunn returned to the Washington Freedom in 2010 and played all 24 regular season matches. The team made it to the playoffs but lost in the quarterfinals. In 2011, the Freedom became MagicJack FC, with Sauerbrunn continuing as a key player.
Sky Blue FC (2012)
Following the collapse of the WPS, Sauerbrunn joined Sky Blue FC for the 2012 season. However, the league folded before the season could begin.
D.C. United (2012)
Sauerbrunn then signed with D.C. United, helping the team win the Eastern Conference regular season title. She missed the playoffs due to Olympic duties.
Kansas City and Utah Royals (2013-2019)
In 2013, Sauerbrunn joined Kansas City, where she played for seven seasons. She won the NWSL championship twice with the team and was named Defender of the Year three times. In 2018, she moved to the Utah Royals and was named Defender of the Year again.
Portland Thorns (2020-Present)
Since 2020, Sauerbrunn has played for the Portland Thorns. She has captained the team since 2021.
International Career
Sauerbrunn has been a pivotal member of the United States Women's National Team since 2008. She has earned over 200 caps and has represented her country at three World Cups and three Olympic Games. Sauerbrunn was part of the teams that won the World Cup in 2015 and 2019, as well as the Olympics in 2012.
Personal Life
Sauerbrunn is in a relationship with Zola Short. She is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has spoken out against homophobia in sports.
Legacy
Becki Sauerbrunn is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of women's soccer. Her exceptional athleticism, tactical acumen, and leadership have made her an indispensable part of both club and country. Sauerbrunn's impact on the sport extends beyond her on-field achievements, as she has also been a vocal advocate for gender equality and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
