USWNT Named TIME Magazine's 2019 Athletes of the Year

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Following their successful 2019 World Cup campaign in France this past summer, the United States Women’s National Team has been named TIME Magazine‘s 2019 Athletes of the Year.

Not only the did the USWNT win a consecutive title, they also inspired a social discourse during politically-charged times. That ability, both on and off the field, makes them worthy title holders for this past year. The crowning moment for the team on the pitch was the 2-0 win over the Netherlands at Parc Olympique Lyonnais in France, with goals from Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle ensuring that they lifted the trophy.

The headlines, of course, didn’t stop after the win seeing an increase of sponsors supporting the NWSL, where most of the players feature year-round. Sportswear giant Nike also rallied the nation and pushed for equality on a global scale. This, combined with the team’s on-pitch performances, led to the USWNT home shirt becoming Nike’s best-selling football jersey ever.

TIME Magazine’s recognition also follows on the heels of Megan Rapinoe being awarded the Ballon d’Or earlier his month and being named Sports Illustrated‘s 2019 Sportsperson of the Year earlier this week. The team now looks towards the 2020 Summer Olympics being held in Tokyo, Japan.

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