Carli Lloyd is a celebrated figure in American soccer, renowned for her exceptional skills and numerous accolades. As a two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women's World Cup champion, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. Lloyd's remarkable career includes scoring the winning goals in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic finals, contributions to the US team's victories in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, and being named FIFA Player of the Year twice. With 316 appearances for the US national team, she holds the second-highest cap record. Lloyd's legacy extends beyond her accomplishments on the field, as she was recognized as the world's highest-paid female soccer player in 2021. After an illustrious career, she retired from professional soccer in 2021, leaving behind an inspiring legacy for aspiring athletes.
1966: First Woman to Score Hat Trick in World Cup Final
Carli Lloyd became the first woman to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, and the first player since Geoff Hurst in 1966 to achieve this feat.
July 16, 1982: Birth of Carli Lloyd
On July 16, 1982, Carli Anne Hollins (née Lloyd) was born in Delran Township, New Jersey.
1997: Start of High School at Delran High School
Carli Lloyd began attending Delran High School in 1997.
1999: 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup
Carli Lloyd helped the United States win their third World Cup title, and their first since 1999.
1999: Playing for Central Jersey Splash
Carli Lloyd played for the W-League team Central Jersey Splash in 1999 while still in high school.
1999: Inspiration from the FIFA Women's World Cup
Carli Lloyd's aspiration to play for the national team was ignited in 1999 when she attended the opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup in the United States.
1999: First Time Named Girls' High School Player of the Year
The Philadelphia Inquirer honored Carli Lloyd as the Girls' High School Player of the Year for the first time in 1999.
2000: Graduation from Delran High School
Carli Lloyd graduated from Delran High School in 2000 after a successful soccer career.
2000: Joining New Brunswick Power
Carli Lloyd joined the W-League team New Brunswick Power in 2000.
2001: Playing for South Jersey Banshees
Carli Lloyd played for the W-League team South Jersey Banshees in 2001.
2001: Enrollment at Rutgers University
Carli Lloyd began her studies at Rutgers University in 2001, joining the Scarlet Knights women's soccer team.
2002: Carli Lloyd's U-21 Nordic Cup Success
Carli Lloyd began her international career with the United States at the under-21 level, winning consecutive titles at the Nordic Cup from 2002 to 2005.
2004: Named Big East Midfielder of the Year
Carli Lloyd received the distinction of being named the Big East Midfielder of the Year in 2004.
2004: Playing for New Jersey Wildcats
In 2004, Carli Lloyd briefly played for the New Jersey Wildcats, making one appearance with teammates that included Kelly Smith, Manya Makoski, Tobin Heath, and Heather O'Reilly.
2004: Graduation from Rutgers University
In 2004, Carli Lloyd graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and Sport Studies.
July 10, 2005: Carli Lloyd's Senior National Team Debut
On July 10, 2005, Carli Lloyd made her debut for the United States women's national soccer team in a game against Ukraine.
October 1, 2006: Carli Lloyd's First International Goal
Carli Lloyd scored her first international goal on October 1, 2006, in a game against Taiwan.
2007: Carli Lloyd's Breakout Performance at Algarve Cup
In 2007, Carli Lloyd had a breakout performance at the Algarve Cup, finishing as the top scorer and earning Most Valuable Player honors.
2008: First Olympic Gold Medal and Olympic Debut
Carli Lloyd participated in her first Olympic games, the 2008 Summer Olympics, and scored the game-winning goal, leading the USWNT to victory and securing her first Olympic gold medal.
2008: Carli Lloyd's Olympic Success
Carli Lloyd played a pivotal role in the United States' gold medal win at the 2008 Olympics, scoring crucial goals, including the game-winner in the final against Brazil.
2008: Carli Lloyd Named U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year
Carli Lloyd was named the 2008 U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year, sharing the honor with Tim Howard.
2008: Joining the Chicago Red Stars
Carli Lloyd's playing rights were allocated to the Chicago Red Stars in 2008 with the launch of Women's Professional Soccer.
2008: 2008 Olympic Gold Medal Match
In the 2008 Olympic gold medal match against Brazil, Carli Lloyd made history by scoring the game-winning goal, a feat she would later repeat in 2012, becoming the only player to achieve this in two separate Olympic finals.
2009: Signing with Sky Blue FC
Carli Lloyd signed with Sky Blue FC, the reigning Women's Professional Soccer champions, in 2009.
April 2010: Ankle Injury
Carli Lloyd suffered a broken ankle during a match against the Chicago Red Stars in April 2010, sidelining her for the majority of the season.
December 2010: Signing with Atlanta Beat
In December 2010, Carli Lloyd signed with the expansion team Atlanta Beat for the upcoming season.
2010: U.S. vs. Mexico Match
In 2010, during a crucial game against Mexico, Carli Lloyd achieved her first career hat trick, leading the U.S. team to a 4-0 victory and earning the title of player of the match.
2010: Carli Lloyd's Broken Ankle and World Cup Qualifying
Despite suffering a broken ankle, Carli Lloyd played a significant role in the United States' qualification for the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup.
2011: 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup
At the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, Carli Lloyd scored her first World Cup goal against Colombia. She contributed an assist, a goal, and a successful penalty kick against Brazil, leading the U.S. to the semi-finals. In the final against Japan, she missed a penalty kick, and the U.S. won the silver medal.
2011: Playing for Atlanta Beat
Carli Lloyd played for the Atlanta Beat in 2011, scoring two goals in ten appearances.
2011: Second Place Finish at the FIFA Women's World Cup
Carli Lloyd was part of the USWNT that finished second in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup.
2011: Carli Lloyd's Algarve Cup Performance
In 2011, Carli Lloyd continued her impressive form, scoring crucial goals at the Algarve Cup, including the best goal of the tournament, and helping the United States secure their eighth title.
2011: Nike's "Pressure Makes Us: Carli Lloyd"
In 2011, Carli Lloyd was featured in a promotional campaign by Nike titled "Pressure Makes Us: Carli Lloyd." This campaign showcased her dedication and ability to perform under pressure.
2012: ESPN Feature: "Title IX is Mine: USWNT"
Carli Lloyd, along with her U.S. Women's National Teammates, was featured in a 2012 ESPN special called "Title IX is Mine: USWNT." This highlighted the team's contributions to women's sports and the impact of Title IX.
2012: Second Olympic Gold Medal
Carli Lloyd scored the winning goal in the final match of the 2012 Summer Olympics, leading the USWNT to win their second consecutive gold medal.
2012: 2012 Olympic Qualifiers
Carli Lloyd participated in the 2012 Olympic Qualifiers, where she scored a goal and provided an assist in matches against the Dominican Republic and Guatemala, contributing to the U.S. team's victories.
January 11, 2013: Carli Lloyd Joins Western New York Flash
On January 11, 2013, Carli Lloyd joined the Western New York Flash in the National Women's Soccer League as part of the NWSL Player Allocation.
May 12, 2013: Lloyd Debuts for Western New York Flash
After recovering from a shoulder injury, Carli Lloyd made her debut for the Flash on May 12, 2013, in a 2-1 loss to FC Kansas City.
October 2013: Highest-Scoring Midfielder
In October 2013, Carli Lloyd became the highest-scoring midfielder in U.S. women's national team history. She surpassed Julie Foudy's record of 45 goals by scoring her 46th international goal in a friendly match against New Zealand.
2013: Joining the Western New York Flash and Winning the NWSL Championship
Carli Lloyd joined the Western New York Flash for the inaugural season of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in 2013, contributing to the team's victory in the regular season championship.
2013: Induction into the Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni
Carli Lloyd was honored with induction into the Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2013.
2013: Carli Lloyd's Successful Season with Western New York Flash
In 2013, Carli Lloyd had a successful season with the Western New York Flash, scoring 10 goals and leading the team to the NWSL Championship final.
October 16, 2014: Carli Lloyd Traded to Houston Dash
On October 16, 2014, Carli Lloyd was traded to the Houston Dash from the Western New York Flash.
April 2015: 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup Selection
In April 2015, Carli Lloyd was selected to the U.S. roster for the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup. This tournament marked a turning point in her career.
August 2015: Nike Commercial & Endorsement Deals
In August 2015, Carli Lloyd appeared in a Nike commercial called "Snow Day" alongside Rob Gronkowski and teammate Sydney Leroux. This was one of several endorsement deals for Lloyd, who also partnered with brands like Visa, Xfinity, and Krave Jerky.
September 2015: Top-Ranked Player in FIFA 16
In September 2015, EA Sports ranked Carli Lloyd as the No. 1 women's player in their FIFA 16 video game. This recognition solidified her position as one of the world's best female soccer players.
2015: First FIFA Women's World Cup Title and Golden Ball Award
Carli Lloyd was part of the USWNT that won the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2015.
2015: Criticism of National Team Culture
Since retiring, Carli Lloyd has expressed criticism towards the national team, particularly about the culture she perceived as "toxic" after the 2015 World Cup win, alleging a shift in focus towards personal branding over team success.
2015: Trade to the Houston Dash
In 2015, Carli Lloyd was traded to the Houston Dash from the Western New York Flash.
2015: Hat-trick in the FIFA Women's World Cup Final and Golden Ball Award
In 2015, Carli Lloyd became the first player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA Women's World Cup final, achieving this feat in the first 16 minutes of the match against Japan. Her outstanding performance earned her the Golden Ball Trophy as the tournament's best player.
2015: Ticker Tape Parade and White House Honors
Following their victory at the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, Carli Lloyd and her teammates were honored with a ticker tape parade in New York City, the first for a women's sports team. They also received a key to the city and were later celebrated at the White House by President Barack Obama.
April 2016: Brand Ambassador and Television Commercials
In April 2016, Carli Lloyd secured a brand ambassador role with Lifeway Foods and appeared in a television commercial for Heineken. She also partnered with Whole Foods Market and United Airlines, further expanding her portfolio of endorsements.
June 2016: Krave Jerky Partnership
Carli Lloyd joined forces with Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps in June 2016 to become a brand partner for Krave Jerky. This partnership highlighted her growing influence as a sports icon.
September 2016: Publication of Carli Lloyd's Memoir
Carli Lloyd's memoir, "When Nobody Was Watching," was published in September 2016.
November 4, 2016: Marriage to Brian Hollins
Carli Lloyd married golfer Brian Hollins on November 4, 2016, in Puerto Morelos, Mexico.
2016: Third Olympic Appearance
Carli Lloyd competed in her third Olympic Games at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
February 2017: Carli Lloyd Joins Manchester City on Loan
In February 2017, Carli Lloyd joined Manchester City on loan, for the FA WSL Spring Series.
January 18, 2018: Carli Lloyd Traded to Sky Blue FC
On January 18, 2018, Carli Lloyd was traded to Sky Blue FC.
2018: Return to Sky Blue FC
Carli Lloyd rejoined Sky Blue FC in 2018 after being traded from the Houston Dash.
2019: 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup
Carli Lloyd made history at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup by becoming the first player to score in six consecutive World Cup matches.
2019: Second FIFA Women's World Cup Title
Carli Lloyd won her second FIFA Women's World Cup title with the USWNT in 2019.
2020: Retirement Announcement
Carli Lloyd announced her retirement from the national team in 2021, following the Olympic games.
2020: Olympic Bronze Medal and Retirement Announcement
Carli Lloyd helped the USWNT secure a bronze medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics, after which she revealed her decision to retire from the national team.
March 2021: Carli Lloyd Ranked Highest-Paid Female Soccer Player
In March 2021, Carli Lloyd achieved the recognition of being the highest-paid female soccer player globally.
April 10, 2021: 300th Cap
On April 10, 2021, Carli Lloyd earned her 300th cap, becoming the third player in U.S. women's national team history to achieve this milestone.
June 14, 2021: Oldest Goal Scorer
On June 14, 2021, Carli Lloyd became the oldest player to score a goal for the U.S. women's national team at 38 years and 332 days old.
August 5, 2021: Most Olympic Goals
On August 5, 2021, Carli Lloyd secured the record for most Olympic goals scored by a U.S. women's player with a total of 10 goals.
October 26, 2021: Carli Lloyd's Final International Match
Carli Lloyd played her last international game representing the United States Women's National Team (USWNT) on October 26, 2021.
October 2022: 2023 Women's World Cup Draw Conductor
In October 2022, Carli Lloyd co-conducted the draw for the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
2022: Only Player with Normal Time Hat Trick
Only one player other than Carli Lloyd has scored a hat trick in the World Cup final: Kylian Mbappé in 2022. Lloyd remains the only player to have scored a hat-trick in normal time of a World Cup final.
2023: CL10 Soccer Clinic Development
Carli Lloyd developed the CL10 Soccer Clinic to help others enhance their soccer skills.
2023: Comments on Marketability Over Talent
Carli Lloyd stated her belief that U.S. Soccer prioritizes marketability over talent, suggesting they don't always showcase the best players but rather those who are more marketable.
2023: Criticism During 2023 World Cup
During the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Lloyd's criticism of the team for celebrating a second-place group finish, deeming it inadequate, sparked controversy and pushback from players and teammates.
May 1, 2024: Pregnancy Announcement
On May 1, 2024, Carli Lloyd and her husband announced they are expecting their first child.
October 2024: Expected Due Date
Carli Lloyd's first child is due in October 2024.
2028: Teqball Olympic Sport Goal
Carli Lloyd partnered with Teqball USA with the goal of making Teqball an Olympic sport by 2028.