Emma Hayes prioritizes focus over politics ahead of key matches
- The USWNT is preparing for matches against England and the Netherlands amid a charged political atmosphere following the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
- Emma Hayes emphasizes the team's singular focus on soccer without distractions from political discussions during their training camp.
- The upcoming match at Wembley Stadium highlights the growth and support for women's football, marking significant developments in the sport.
The United States women's national soccer team (USWNT) is currently in England for their first international matches since Donald Trump's re-election in the 2024 presidential election. The team, led by head coach Emma Hayes, will take on England on November 30 and the Netherlands on December 3, 2024. Despite the political climate and Trump’s recent election as president, Hayes emphasized that the focus for the players is solely on their performance and preparation for these upcoming matches. In a statement, when asked about discussions regarding the election within the team camp, Hayes firmly indicated that they do not have time for such conversations, focusing instead on competitive play and the goals at hand. Amidst this context, USMNT player Christian Pulisic has recently sparked controversy by mimicking a dance associated with Trump, clarifying that it was not a political statement but merely a popular dance trend.