MICHELLE AKERS

Michelle Akers, named FIFA Co-Player of the Century alongside Pelé, was a founding member of the original U.S. Women's National Team in 1985 and scored the first goal in team history. She went on to become one of soccer's most dominant forces, redefining the game with her power, precision, and leadership over a remarkable 15-year career that saw her net 105 goals in 153 international appearances.

Akers was the Golden Boot winner at the inaugural 1991 FIFA Women's World Cup, scoring a record-setting 10 goals, and helped lead the U.S. to World Cup titles in both 1991 and 1999, as well as Olympic gold in 1996. She remains the only American woman ever awarded the FIFA Order of Merit and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in soccer history.

"At this level almost everyone has the physical tools. It comes down to how bad you want it and what you do when things get hard. It's all in your head and in your heart," says Akers, whose influence on the sport continues to inspire players worldwide.