Carli Lloyd, the legendary US Women’s National Team star, is making headlines again—this time for her triumphant return to competitive soccer at the TST 7v7 tournament in Cary, North Carolina. At 42, Lloyd has proven that her passion for the game burns as fiercely as ever, scoring the decisive goal that sent the US Women’s team into the semifinals and helping them secure back-to-back championships in this high-stakes, winner-takes-all event. The tournament, which features a rapid-fire format and a $1 million prize, has become a reunion for retired USWNT icons, but it’s Lloyd’s renewed energy and leadership that have captured fans’ attention.
Lloyd’s journey back to the pitch is remarkable. After retiring from professional soccer in 2021 and being inducted into the US Soccer Hall of Fame in 2025, she has reconnected with the sport in a way that even surprised her. “You go through those couple years after you play, or at least I did, of just trying to get pregnant and then wanting to live life,” Lloyd recently shared. “But now I feel like I’m back loving the game again.” This emotional reconnection has fueled her performances and inspired her teammates, many of whom are former USWNT standouts themselves.
Carli Lloyd’s Impact on and off the Field
Carli Lloyd’s influence extends far beyond her on-field heroics. Her return to competitive play at TST is not just about winning—it’s about setting an example for the next generation and advocating for equality in women’s sports. The TST tournament, which now features a dedicated women’s division with equal prize money, owes much of its evolution to the advocacy of players like Heather O’Reilly, who was inspired by Lloyd and others to push for parity.
Lloyd’s presence has elevated the tournament’s profile, drawing fans and media eager to see if the two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time World Cup champion still has what it takes. She does. Her game-winning goal in the semifinals was a reminder of her clutch performances on the world stage, and her leadership in the locker room has helped unify a team of former rivals and friends.
Off the field, Lloyd’s recent Hall of Fame speech revealed a more reflective and vulnerable side. She apologized to former teammates for keeping them at arm’s length during her playing days, acknowledging that her relentless pursuit of excellence sometimes came at the expense of personal relationships. “There was nothing I cherished more than winning, but it comes with a price, and I have paid it,” she said. “However, in exchange, I received more than I ever anticipated.” This newfound openness has endeared her to fans and peers alike, showing that even legends can grow and evolve.
The Future of Carli Lloyd and Women’s Soccer
The TST tournament is more than just a nostalgic trip for retired stars—it’s a glimpse into the future of women’s soccer. With rapid substitutions, target score rules, and a focus on entertainment, TST is redefining how the game can be played and enjoyed. For Carli Lloyd, this format has provided a perfect stage to showcase her enduring skill and competitive fire.
Her comeback is also a testament to the power of second chances. After retiring, becoming a mother, and enduring personal challenges, Lloyd has embraced vulnerability and found joy in the game again. “Unlike during my playing days, I have been fully present,” she said about motherhood. “I have embraced vulnerability, emotions, and have engaged completely in every moment with her.” This balance between family and sport has given her a fresh perspective and renewed motivation.
Lloyd’s story is inspiring a new generation of players and fans. Her success at TST, alongside teammates like Ali Krieger and Heather O’Reilly, demonstrates that the spirit of competition never fades. The tournament’s growth—from a single women’s team to a full division with equal prize money—reflects the progress women’s soccer has made and the potential for even greater things ahead.
Engaging Conclusion
Carli Lloyd’s return to the pitch is a reminder that legends never truly retire—they just find new ways to inspire. Her performance at TST 2025 has shown that she still has the skill, passion, and determination that made her a household name. More importantly, her journey reflects the evolving landscape of women’s soccer, where advocacy, equality, and personal growth are as celebrated as goals and trophies.
If you want to see Carli Lloyd and her teammates in action, catch the TST tournament highlights and be part of the movement that’s shaping the future of the sport.