With the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 just around the corner, the anticipation and excitement is palpable. For the 32 teams competing in the tournament, this is a crucial moment, but it holds even more significance for the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). Having clinched victory in both the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, the USWNT is now determined to achieve a historic three-peat.

With the tournament looming on the horizon, it is only fitting to pay homage to the star players who have elevated the team with their assists. From Megan Rapinoe to Alex Morgan, we delve into the list of the top ten assist queens of the USWNT.

10. Alex Morgan- 49

Starting off at number ten is none other than Alex Morgan, a prominent figure in US women’s soccer. Morgan, currently tied with Carin Jennings-Gabarra at 49 assists, has showcased her prowess on the field time and time again. With her previous successes in the 2015 and 2019 World Cup, Morgan will take on the role of captain for the USWNT in the upcoming 2023 World Cup.

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Having amassed an impressive 207 appearances for the USWNT, she has proven herself to be exceptional. Not only is she an Olympic Gold medalist, but has also received recognition as the FIFA Best Women’s Player and been honored with the ESPY award for best female athlete, among numerous other accolades. With an astounding goal tally of 121, she ranks as the fifth-highest goal scorer in the history of the USWNT.

9. Shannon MacMillan — 50

Sliding into the ninth position is Shannon MacMillan, a member of the USWNT squad that triumphed in the 1999 World Cup. With 50 assists under her belt, MacMillan has etched her name in the team’s illustrious history. In 2002 she was even voted the US Soccer Female Athlete of the Year. After retiring she went on to become a coach for the women’s college soccer team.

8. Julie Foudy — 55

At number eight, we have Julie Foudy, a stalwart figure on the USWNT from 1988 to 2004. Foudy’s 55 assists highlight her longevity and consistent performance over the years. Her performance was essential in securing victory for the team in both the 1991 and 1999 World Cups. Along with the World Cups, Foudy also helped USWNT earn gold medals in the 1996 and 2004 Olympics and a silver in 2000.

7. Heather O’Reilly — 55

Heather O’Reilly claims the seventh spot with her 55 assists. O’Reilly’s journey with the USWNT began in 2002, and she quickly made her mark as a valuable midfielder. She played a pivotal part in helping the USWNT earn three Olympic Gold medals in  2004, 2008, and 2012, before retiring in 2016. Along with this, she was also part of the 2015 World Cup winning squad.

6. Carli Lloyd — 64

Carli Lloyd, known for her exceptional goal-scoring ability, also makes the list at number six with 64 assists. Lloyd’s versatility as a midfielder has allowed her to excel in both creating scoring opportunities for her teammates and finding the back of the net herself. Her 134 goals are the third-most in team history. After being part of some of USWNT’s best years she retired in 2021.

5. Tiffeny Milbrett — 64

In a tie for fifth place, we have Tiffeny Milbrett, a member of the 1996 Olympic gold medal and the 1999 World Cup-winning squad. Like Lloyd, Milbrett has accumulated 64 assists throughout her career, leaving an indelible mark on the USWNT’s legacy. In 2018 Milbrett was also inducted into the US Soccer Hall of Fame.

4. Abby Wambach — 73

Next up, we have Abby Wambach, an iconic figure in US women’s soccer. Wambach’s 73 assists, earned from 2001 to 2015, place her at number four on the list. Wambach’s aerial prowess and gift for setting up her teammates made her an incredibly dangerous force on the field.

With 255 appearances, she holds the record for the most goals scored in USWNT history with an impressive tally of 184. Her commanding presence in both goal-scoring and assist statistics solidifies her position as one of the all-time greats in USWNT history.

3. Megan Rapinoe — 73

Megan Rapinoe, a force to be reckoned with on the field, shares the number three spot with Wambach, both boasting 73 assists. Rapinoe’s presence has been felt in every tournament she has participated in. She led the team to World Cup glory in 2019 winning the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball.

Now she has even been chosen for her fourth World Cup, but this will be her last as she has announced her retirement. However, what sets her apart is not only her exceptional skills on the field but also her outspokenness off the field. Rapinoe has long been an advocate for women’s sports and equal pay. Her dedication to these causes has truly been inspiring.

2. Kristine Lilly — 106

Coming in at number two is Kristine Lilly, the most-capped player in the history of the sport. Appearing in 354 games Lilly’s 106 assists are a testament to her longevity and unwavering commitment to the team. With a total of 236 goal contributions to her name her role as both a playmaker and a goal-scorer solidifies her place in USWNT folklore.

1. Mia Hamm — 147

Finally, topping the list at number one is Mia Hamm, a true legend of the game. With an awe-inspiring 147 assists, Hamm has left an indelible mark on US women’s soccer. Averaging 0.53 assists per game, she helped USWNT win two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals.

With 158 goals to her name, she ranks just behind Abby Wambach as the second-highest USWNT goal scorer. And for many solidifies her as the greatest of all time.

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Is your favorite player on this list? Let us know in the comments.