News & Current Affairs

Taylor Swift, Megan Thee Stallion, Others Unveil U.S. Women’s World Cup Roster

By Azeezat Okunlola | Jun 24, 2023
With the help of US President Joe Biden, music icon Taylor Swift, NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal, and rappers Lil Wayne and Megan Thee Stallion, the United States unveiled its squad for the Women's World Cup.
 
The United States women's football team will compete in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.
 
On Wednesday, a star-studded cast of politicians, celebrities, and former players took to USWNT's Twitter account to disclose the names of the 23-person squad.
 
The eight minute long video was introduced by Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. According to Biden, the U.S. women's national soccer team has exemplified what it means to be a champion for nearly 40 years.
 
"From lifting trophies to fighting for gender equity, these women have been a source of inspiration to Americans of all ages - our family included."
 
"Joe and I can't wait to watch this team soar at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup," added Jill Biden.
 
Taylor Swift  joined the Bidens, introducing Alex Morgan as a "friend", adding that she was a "massive fan" of Morgan.
 
"I was really surprised to see Taylor announce me but all the other amazing celebrities, influencers and people so influential in the soccer world announcing the roster was pretty cool,” Morgan said. “Give U.S. Soccer props for that. I think they nailed it with Taylor announcing me. She had some really nice things to say and I feel like we've supported each other a lot, so it was really great to see that."
 
Wrestler and actor John Cena was joined at the reveal by Olympic and World Cup champion Mia Hamm and alpine skiing superstar Mikaela Shiffrin. American actress Blake Lively, US men’s player Matt Turner, former player Tim Howard, and WNBA player Breanna Stewart were also part of the announcement.
 
Vlatko Andonovski, the team's head coach, has chosen a roster that features a nice mix of young talent and seasoned veterans. In 2019, the United States won the championship by beating the Netherlands. This year, the United States is in Group E with the Netherlands, Portugal, and Vietnam.
HIDDEN - to trigger update. rm later