The Players Tribune

Women in Sports

Over the last century, female athletes have emerged as powerful voices for equality. Read their firsthand accounts of how they overcame the challenges they faced.

ALL STORIES

I am the girl Crystal Dunn of the USWNT met at the airport. It was Dulles Airport in Virginia. I am 19 now, and meeting her changed my life.

Karen Wangare Leonard

When I put on our U.S. kit … I do it for every single American girl out there who wants to see someone who looks like them — someone whose story reminds them of

Crystal Dunn

Every time I hear the anthem play before our matches, no matter if it’s a friendly, or a World Cup final, I feel the same thing: gratefulness.

Julie Ertz

At one point I started to dream about playing football for real. It’s what I did best. It’s what I liked. It’s what I wanted.

Andressinha

Here I am, once again, facing a new struggle. Am I too old? Am I fit enough? Am I done?

Carli Lloyd