Emma Hayes Boldly Claims USWNT ‘On Par With Iconic All Blacks’ After Olympic Glory

It’s a cliche to hear that champions keep rising every time they get knocked down. But only a few teams in the world are renowned and do it often. Hence, USWNT’s rise after the last World Cup was always on the cards considering their previous track record. But to return with a 6-win Olympic dominance solidifies their place among the elite sporting teams. While the sporting world is familiar with such accolades to New Zealand’s rugby team, now even coach Emma Hayes doesn’t have any hesitation in categorizing her team at the same level.

Speaking on the legacy of USWNT, Hayes herself was astonished about the value of USWNT. During her conversation in the Sports Agents podcast, “I think the US women’s national team is on par with as something as iconic All Blacks,” placing the Stars and Stripes women parallel to the Rugby maestros. Further giving her reasons, Hayes stated, “And genuinely when we went through different exercises around what do we need to keep hold of in this environment? The value of that shirt and everything that goes around that shirt is so powerful and you always feel like, and this is the same for me as an outsider coming in. I’m almost like, ‘I can’t let this shirt down,” claiming it to be an inspiring influence. While, Hayes already made waves in English soccer, getting such accolades is a testament to USWNT’s heritage.

The rise and persistence of the Yanks to the throne of soccer is nothing short of epic. 35 years ago, there were no major leagues in the States, and the beautiful game did not fascinate the nation. However, the USWNT’s boldness to sneak through multiple soccer giants in the 1991 World Cup paved the way, and there has been no turning back since then.

Meanwhile, the All Blacks are considered the best sporting teams in the world due to their dominance. With more than a 77% win rate since the beginning, its record surpasses even the best of the national teams in sports like the Brazilian men’s soccer team or even the Australian cricket team. With a better head-to-head record with every major opponent, New Zealand Rugby is reputed for creating that sporting estate. Therefore Hayes is thankful but not overconfident to lead the USWNT.

‘Selfless’ Emma Hayes’ displays humility to coach USWNT

Considering her record, the 47-year-old Brit has already established her legacy. Winning 7 league titles with Chelsea women, she is the most successful coach in WSL. Subsequently, she has proved her mettle leading USWNT to gold with some bold decisions. However, Emma Hayes acknowledged that it’s the USA women’s badge that’s paramount. Hayes also said, “In so many ways I felt so committed, I’m always committed but, I just felt like I was playing for something bigger than myself. When you’re in an iconic team like that you can’t help but feel selfless,” revealing her aim to just keep the legacy going.

It’s just been 33 years since the USWNT saw its maiden glory at the World Cup. But it hardly gave other teams any chance to stamp their authority. Producing icons over the years from Mia Hamm to Alex Morgan, they won 4 World Cups and 5 Olympic golds. This makes them the most successful women’s soccer team. But more importantly, it is a force in the current sporting world to be reckoned with remarkable consistency.

What do you think about Emma Hayes’ take? Let us know in the comments.