Kristine Lilly

Kristine Lilly is one of the most legendary and accomplished athletes in women’s soccer history and is the only person to have played in five FIFA Women’s World Cups. The Wilton, Connecticut, native is also the only player to play for the U.S. in four different decades and is both the youngest and oldest player to score a goal for the United States. Attending the University of North Carolina, Lilly was a four-time All-American and helped lead the Tar Heels to four NCAA titles. Lilly is the world record holder for the most number of international appearances, with her 354 caps, earning her the nickname “Queen of Caps." Born in New York City, Lilly played as midfielder and forward during her career, in which she competed in three Olympic Games and won three Olympic medals. Lilly retired at the age of 39, finishing her career as the second-highest goalscorer in U.S. and world history with 130 international goals behind Mia Hamm. She was named U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year three times during her career. Lilly also holds the U.S. record for most consecutive starts and became the first player to hit 300 caps, last playing professionally for the Boston Breakers. She became the first player in history to play in 200 career international games. Her number has been retired by the University of North Carolina Hall of Fame.