Crystal Dunn: A Legacy of Inspiration and Leadership in Soccer

Though Crystal Dunn and Dennis Rodman differ in age by a decade, their ability to energize a room and motivate teammates before a game is remarkably similar.

“Crystal and I have a great rapport and often feed off each other’s energetic personalities,” Rodman remarked on Thursday.

“She excels in building connections with younger players while maintaining strong relationships with the veterans, effectively setting a standard while empathizing with newcomers. The Olympics were an absolute blast with her; she embodies the spirit of a cool aunt.”

Dunn, a three-time Olympian (2016, 2020, 2024), made 16 appearances at the Summer Games, playing a pivotal role in leading the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) to its first Gold Medal in 12 years during the 2024 tournament in Paris.

Sophia Swanson, who recently welcomed her son Marcel in 2021, has drawn inspiration from Dunn’s journey into motherhood.

“Seeing Crystal’s experience gave me the confidence that I could have a baby and return to play,” Wilson shared during Media Day. “Her impact on the game is immeasurable, and I can’t express enough how much she inspires me.”

Dunn has graced six professional soccer teams throughout her career, which began in the DMV area when she was drafted first overall by the Washington Spirit in the 2014 NWSL College Draft. A former standout at the University of North Carolina, Dunn earned four-time All-American honors and was the first player since Mia Hamm in 1993 to be named ACC Player of the Year three times. Whether she’s seen as the cool aunt, the supportive big sister, or the compassionate teammate, her uniqueness is unmatched.

Croix Bethune, the 2024 NWSL Rookie of the Year and Midfielder of the Year, found it hard to express the depth of Dunn’s influence on her career when asked.

“I was initially taken aback to hear the news; it’s like, you’re an OG, but girl, you still have it!” Bethune told GOAL. “For me, having a person of color thriving on the national team really stands out. I believe many young girls look up to her for that reason. Witnessing her at the Olympics only deepened my admiration—she’s fun, goofy, intelligent, and a mother, so I can relate to her in many ways. The idea of her retiring just feels wrong.”

Olivia Moultrie, a current midfielder on the USWNT, highlighted Dunn’s qualities as a teammate when asked about the traits that make one great. While she began her response referencing Sam Coffey, she quickly turned to Dunn’s recent retirement.

“Although she’s no longer with us, I think Sam Coffey exemplifies this, and Crystal Dunn is a fantastic representation of what a great teammate embodies—an ultimate competitor with a vibrant personality off the field,” Moultrie stated. “I was shocked to learn about her retirement, yet it was a privilege to share the field with her. Congratulations to her for everything she has achieved; it’s inspiring that she now gets to transition into a new chapter with her family.”

As Crystal Dunn transitions from her playing career, her vibrant presence and infectious spirit will resonate for years to come. In her retirement announcement, Dunn expressed:

“I look forward to spending more time with my family and being a more present mother. This decision was made with immense gratitude for the experiences I’ve had as a professional soccer player. I’ve grown through challenges, celebrated incredible triumphs, and cherished every part of this journey. Who would have thought that kicking a soccer ball at age four would lead to such a transformative experience filled with moments beyond my imagination? Each phase of my career has reinforced the values of humility, resilience, and gratitude. My journey wasn’t perfect, but it was beautiful, filled with trophies, medals, invaluable lessons, and the indescribable joy of becoming a mother along the way.”

As a mother, a GOAT (Greatest of All Time), and a beloved figure, Dunn not only excelled in her role as an outside back but also paved the way for young players who look like her, showing them that it’s entirely acceptable to dream as big as she did.