Carli Lloyd, the renowned two-time World Cup winner and double Olympic gold medallist, recently shared her personal journey of unexplained infertility and IVF treatment in an article for Women’s Health magazine. At the age of 41, post-retirement, Lloyd revealed that she is expecting her first child in October, which has brought her immense joy and a newfound sense of vulnerability and openness.
Reflecting on her career as a competitive player, Lloyd acknowledged that people often only saw her as the fierce and determined competitor on the field, with her intense focus and drive. She expressed a desire to have perhaps enjoyed moments more and let her guard down, but the cut-throat environment of the United States women’s national team shaped her into the player she became. With 134 goals in 316 international appearances, Lloyd’s record speaks to her success and dedication to the sport.
Transitioning into a broadcasting role, Lloyd has continued to command an audience with her strong opinions and insights. While her views may at times divide opinions, she is respected for her willingness to speak her mind and offer candid perspectives. As a studio analyst for Fox Sports, Lloyd has not shied away from expressing her views on the USWNT and the U.S. men’s national team, calling for potential changes and improvements in their performance.
Despite facing criticism and negativity on social media, Lloyd remains steadfast in her commitment to her work and her beliefs. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding herself with a supportive circle and not letting online negativity detract from her sense of self-worth. Lloyd’s upcoming role as a studio analyst for the Copa America final this weekend, while pregnant, reflects her determination to continue pursuing her career and inspiring others in similar situations.
In her open letter, Lloyd highlighted the challenges she faced in her fertility journey and stressed the importance of educating young athletes and women about reproductive health and fertility options. She advocated for more support and resources for women in sports and beyond, emphasizing the need for conversations and awareness around fertility issues.
As a respected figure in the world of football, Carli Lloyd’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities and triumphs that athletes face both on and off the field. Her resilience, honesty, and commitment to advocating for important issues make her a compelling voice in sports media and a role model for future generations.