Challenges in the Life of Tobin Heath in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Tobin Heath's life and career.

Tobin Powell Heath is a highly decorated American former professional soccer player celebrated for her skill and accomplishments as a forward and midfielder for the United States national team. She secured Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012, as well as FIFA Women's World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019. Additionally, she earned a silver medal at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup and a bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics. Heath was recognized as U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year in 2016 and U.S. Soccer Young Female Athlete of the Year in 2009 and known for her exceptional skill.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2010: Illness and Ankle Injury

Due to an illness and a major ankle injury suffered during the WPS season, Tobin Heath did not play for the U.S. in 2010. The ankle injury required surgery.

2010: First Overall Pick in WPS Draft

In 2010, Tobin Heath was the first overall pick in the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) college draft and was selected by the expansion team Atlanta Beat. She suffered an ankle injury in her third appearance and missed the remainder of the season.

2011: FIFA Women's World Cup debut

In 2011, at the age of 23, Heath made her FIFA Women's World Cup debut in Germany, appearing in four matches. In the World Cup final, her penalty shot was saved, contributing to the U.S. loss against Japan 3–1 on penalties.

2012: Joined New York Fury

In 2012, Tobin Heath joined New York Fury of the WPSL Elite League, recovering from an ankle injury at the start of the season and later playing one game with the team.

2017: Ankle Injury During NWSL Championship Game

During the 2017 NWSL Championship game, Tobin Heath suffered an ankle injury which required surgery at the beginning of 2018.

2017: Back Injury and Return to NWSL

In 2017, Tobin Heath missed the majority of the NWSL season due to a back injury, and she took on a role as Youth Technical Director within the team's Development Academy. She returned for the end of the season and helped her team win the NWSL Championship.

2017: Injuries and Limited Appearances

In 2017, after appearing in all three games at the SheBelieves Cup, Heath made only one more appearance for the U.S. due to a nagging back injury and an ankle injury suffered in the NWSL Championship game.

January 2018: Ankle Surgery

In January 2018, Heath underwent ankle surgery.

2020: Opted out of 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup

In 2020, due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Tobin Heath elected not to participate in the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup.

January 2021: Ankle Injury Sidelined

In January 2021, Tobin Heath was sidelined by an ankle injury, and later suffered a knee injury, prematurely ending her debut season with Manchester United.