Ali Krieger, a celebrated figure in women’s soccer, stepped away from professional play two years ago after clinching the 2023 NWSL Championship with Gotham FC. However, her passion for the sport continues unabated.
Recently, Krieger reunited with former teammates and new players to form a team for The Soccer Tournament (TST) held in Cary, North Carolina. The U.S. Women’s team secured victory thanks to a goal from Evelyn Shores, a midfielder from the U.S. Under-23 team and University of North Carolina, with an assist from Heather O’Reilly, another former national team member. This win marks their second consecutive title at the tournament, along with a $1 million prize.
Reflecting on the experience, Krieger said, “It’s just enjoyable to play with my former teammates again, who I’ve won championships with over the years, and then just to see the young talent rise.” Her commitment to soccer remains strong, evidenced by her participation in a five-on-five charity match, the Showdown, organized by basketball legend Steve Nash’s foundation, aimed at raising funds for children in need.
“I miss the game so much, so kind of dabbling in it one weekend at a time every year is enough for me,” she stated in anticipation of the event.
Krieger has also taken steps to support the growth of women’s sports off the field. Earlier this year, she made an equity investment in League One Volleyball (LOVB), viewing women’s sports as an ecosystem ripe for development. She expressed interest in expanding her investment strategy into women’s hockey and basketball, and she aims to deepen her involvement in the NWSL beyond her analytical role at ESPN, which she has held since 2024.
“I want to be an owner and invest fully in an organization so that I can have more of an impact on the day-to-day side of things,” said Krieger, aligning herself with a growing trend among former U.S. Women’s National Team players who are becoming investors in various women’s sports teams. Notable players like Alex Morgan, Lauren Holiday, and Abby Wambach are part of ownership groups within the league they once competed in, emphasizing a commitment to the future of women’s soccer.
The current landscape of the NWSL—marked by significant franchise valuations—offers an opportunity for Krieger and other retired players to influence the game. Krieger is optimistic about expansion in the league, suggesting cities like Las Vegas, Atlanta, and even her nearby Philadelphia as potential locations for new teams. “I’d love to see another team in New York someday,” she noted, highlighting the importance of rivalries in fostering soccer’s growth.
Krieger believes that for the NWSL to thrive, teams must adopt a club-like mentality where youth development is prioritized, akin to European models. “It would be great to have that model, just like it is in Europe, where you start at the youth level and you move through the ranks. That consistency breeds elite talent,” she explained, emphasizing the need for structured pathways for young players.
Her vision also encompasses nurturing competition within the league. “No one is guaranteed a spot, and that’s how it should be,” she reiterated, advocating for merit-based opportunities.
Even in her new role, Krieger continues to feel a connection to the field. “When I’m not playing, I’m more nervous,” she admitted. “You can’t control anything. On the field, at least you feel like you can help.”
Krieger’s multifaceted approach to her post-retirement career showcases her ongoing commitment to growing the game and supporting the next generation of players.
This article originally appeared in The Athletic.
