After years of controversy surrounding political activism in sports, U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) coach Emma Hayes has made it clear that her squad is leaving politics off the field. In the wake of Donald Trump’s re-election earlier this month, Hayes emphasized that her team’s sole focus is on soccer, signaling a potential cultural shift for a program once defined by outspoken activism under former captain Megan Rapinoe.
The USWNT is currently in Europe for its first international fixtures since Trump’s re-election on November 5. They face England in London on November 30, followed by a match against the Netherlands in Amsterdam on December 3.
During a press conference, Hayes was asked whether political discussions, including the outcome of the election, had been part of the team’s preparations. Her response was unequivocal: “No, we don’t. We definitely do not have time for conversations like elections.”
The coach added, “This group is here to compete. I sat next to one of the most competitive people I’ve ever met, Lindsey Horan, and she’s all business. Lindsey will tell you about not winning a couple of Cluedo games this week. That’s how seriously she takes competition. It’s the same mindset we bring to the field.”
Hayes’ approach represents a stark departure from the Rapinoe-led era, during which the team became as well known for its political statements as its success on the pitch. Under Rapinoe’s leadership, the USWNT often championed causes ranging from gender pay equity to LGBTQ+ rights. Rapinoe famously clashed with Trump during his first term, declaring she would “never go to the White House” and becoming a polarizing figure.
With Rapinoe retired and a new generation of players taking center stage, Hayes appears determined to shift the focus back to soccer. Her comments reflect a desire to foster a competitive, team-first culture that prioritizes performance over political discourse.
While Hayes is steering clear of politics, the players seem to be on board with her philosophy. Midfielder Lindsey Horan, now the team captain, echoed her coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of staying focused.
“We’re here to win,” Horan said in a separate interview. “That’s our priority. Every single one of us is committed to giving 100% for the team and for our country.”
Horan’s attitude sets the tone for a team eager to rebuild its reputation after a disappointing performance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where the USWNT was eliminated in the Round of 16.
While Hayes’ stance has been praised by some for returning the spotlight to the sport, others view it as a missed opportunity to continue advocating for social issues. Critics argue that the USWNT’s platform extends beyond soccer, allowing them to influence important conversations.
However, Hayes appears confident in her approach, focusing on unity and competitiveness. “This is about soccer. That’s what we’re here to do. There’s plenty of time for other conversations outside of camp, but here, we’re a team,” she said.
As the USWNT prepares for its matches against England and the Netherlands, all eyes will be on how this recalibrated team performs on the field. The upcoming games are a chance for the squad to showcase its renewed focus and start building momentum toward the 2024 Olympics.
For Hayes, success will ultimately be measured in wins and championships—not soundbites or headlines. Her clear message is that soccer, not politics, will define the future of the USWNT.
Whether this new direction will win over fans or alienate those who admired the team’s outspoken activism remains to be seen. For now, however, it’s clear that the U.S. Women’s National Team is all business, ready to reclaim its place at the top of the sport.
