Celebration and appreciation for Carli Lloyd in USWNT farewell match

Surprisingly, not a single one of the USWNT’s six goals on Tuesday night came from Carli Lloyd, though it wasn’t for lack of trying. Her teammates did their best to feed her juicy through-balls all evening. Her absence from the score sheet hardly mattered though. The night was all about her anyway.

Emotions were high as Carli Lloyd made her exit

In the 66th minute, Lloyd left the field for the last time as a member of the USWNT. She cried, her mother cried, fans chanted “thank you Carli,” her teammates lined up for hugs, the South Korean players clapped and, though I didn’t expect to, I shed a few tears as well.

Few athletes get full control over how they exit the game. Lloyd hung up her boots fully fit, having continued to earn her spot on the USWNT roster. She chose her moment and she chose it well.

Watching Carli walk into a new chapter of her life with joy and pride, while simultaneously feeling tear-inducing nostalgia over the moments that brought her to this point was particularly powerful and moving.

Good games or bad, Lloyd could never be accused of not giving it her all. Beyond the goals and impressive accomplishments, I think her constant effort was one of her attributes fans admired most. With unwavering commitment, drive, and focus, she gave it her all for her team and country and deserves to be celebrated.

As she left the field, she took off her jersey to reveal another jersey underneath with the name “Hollins” (her husband’s last name) across the back. It was a touching nod to her next chapter where, after all these years, she will finally have the opportunity to center her life around her and her husband.

A tribute video, team huddle, many hugs and a farewell speech followed the match as Lloyd said her thank you’s and goodbyes.

"“Thank you to everyone who has played a role in my journey. I can’t thank you enough,” Lloyd said. “And that is it. I am signing off. You will not see me on the field, but you best believe that I will be around helping this game grow.Source: FOX Soccer"

All the best to Carli Lloyd as she enters new and exciting territory. She leaves the game a legend and leaves the USWNT in capable hands.