Gotham FC defender Emily Sonnett captured a record eighth SheBelieves Cup title after once again playing a pivotal role for the United States, who defeated Colombia 1-0 in the tournament’s final on Saturday.

Sonnett has been a rock of reliability for the national team and at club level with Gotham FC. The 32-year-old has been a part of all 11 of the USWNT’s SheBelieves Cup rosters, and no player has tasted more success in the tournament than the 5-foot-7 center-back.

On Saturday, she surpassed former USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher to stand alone as the only player to win the tournament eight times.

After the tight victory at Harrison, New Jersey’s Sports Illustrated Stadium, Sonnett spoke of the importance of the growth of the SheBelieves Cup and the inspiration that it creates for aspiring youth soccer players.

“I think just being role models and having this visible, huge tournament over the past 11 years, we’ve only seen growth and trying to be visible for girls and boys who want to play soccer,” Sonnett said following the match in the mixed zone. “If we can be someone’s role model, I think that’s really important and how we carry ourselves and how this team wins and how this team wants to inspire people.”

Sonnett Brings Stability and Experience for Gotham, USWNT

There are few better role models to emulate than Sonnett, who has won the NWSL Championship three times with Portland Thorns FC in 2017, the Washington Spirit in 2021 and Gotham FC last season.

The reliable veteran has tasted frequent success with the USWNT, having notably won the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and taken home the gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

With Gotham bringing back its core players ahead of the 2026 NWSL and the USWNT continuing to shine in their preparations for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Sonnett will have the opportunity to continue adding more personal accolades and trophies to an already glittering career.

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