Lynn Williams, a dynamic forward for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) and NJ/NY Gotham FC, is a name that resonates with power and skill in the world of soccer. Born on May 21, 1993, in Fresno, California, Williams has carved out a significant place for herself in the sport, both nationally and internationally.
Early Beginnings and Club Success
Williams’ journey to soccer stardom began in her hometown of Fresno, where she was born to parents David and Christine Williams, both of whom were track & field athletes at Fresno State. Lynn followed a similar athletic path, but her prowess shone brightest on the soccer field. She attended Pepperdine University, where she became the program’s first-ever All-American, majoring in Psychology.
Her professional career took off when she was selected No. 6 overall by the Western New York Flash in the 2015 NWSL College Draft. Williams quickly made her mark, winning the NWSL Golden Boot in 2016, being named the 2016 NWSL MVP, and helping her team clinch the 2016 NWSL Championship. The success didn’t stop there; after the Flash transitioned to the North Carolina Courage, Williams continued to excel, contributing to two more NWSL Championships (2018 and 2019) and three consecutive NWSL Shields (2017, 2018, 2019). Her 57 career NWSL regular season goals, as of the 2023 season, rank her third all-time in league history and first among Americans.
National Team Highlights and Olympic Dreams
Williams’ national team career has been equally impressive. She received her first call-up in October 2016, a memorable month that saw her achieve numerous personal milestones. She made an immediate impact, scoring just 49 seconds after entering her first game against Switzerland. Her international career has been punctuated by moments of brilliance, including a goal just seven minutes after entering a match against New Zealand in Wellington in January 2023, marking her return to international play after a hamstring injury.
The year 2021 was particularly notable for Williams, as she made her Olympic debut, played a career-high 838 minutes in 16 games, and scored five goals with four assists for the USWNT. Her performance in the Olympics, especially against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, where she scored a goal and assisted another, was a testament to her resilience and skill.
Personal Life and Off-Field Pursuits
Off the field, Williams is known for her engaging personality and dedication to her community. She co-hosts a podcast, “Snacks,” with her longtime club teammate and USWNT great Samantha Mewis, where they share insights into their lives as professional athletes. Williams’ commitment to excellence extends beyond soccer, as she uses her platform to inspire and motivate young athletes.
Looking Ahead
As Lynn Williams continues to shine for NJ/NY Gotham FC and the USWNT, her journey serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work required to excel at the highest levels of soccer. With her name etched on the USSF Crest with Four Stars, symbolizing the USWNT’s four World Cup victories, Williams is not just a part of history; she’s actively shaping the future of women’s soccer in the United States.
Next, check out this post: Pernille Harder
Photo credits: Lynn’s IG.
