The Touching Goodbyes: US Women’s National Soccer Team Unveils Emotional Farewell Letters Ahead of 2023 World Cup

U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. Elyanna Garcia/SPP/Shutterstock

Julie Ertz, Sophia Smith, and other players from the U.S. Women's National soccer team received a heartfelt piece of home before their departure for the World Cup. On Wednesday, July 19, the National Women's Soccer League released a YouTube video that showcased several soccer stars reading letters from their loved ones, as they prepared to embark on their journey to New Zealand for the highly anticipated global sports event, commencing on Thursday, July 20.

Ertz, 31, inquired with the cameraperson about her teammates' emotional reactions before opening the letter. Playfully, the midfielder admitted to being the one who often gets teary-eyed during sentimental moments.

Ertz read aloud her husband, Zach's, message: "Julie, it's time for World Cup number 3. Just less than a year ago, you brought Madden, the greatest blessing in our lives, into this world. Witnessing your transformation into a mother has been an incredibly awe-inspiring experience for me. We love you immensely and eagerly look forward to supporting you on this journey towards a fifth star."

Ertz was filled with joy upon receiving news from her husband and son. Meanwhile, Smith, who is 22 years old, received a letter from her significant other, Michael Wilson.

The letter began, "Dear Sophia, I am unable to fully express my pride in the person you have become. You are the most extraordinary individual I have ever met in my entire life," she read aloud. "Let us continue to make history together: as a World Cup champion and MVP. I love you."

After reading the heartwarming sentiments, Smith embraced the letter, describing it as adorable and expressing immense happiness. In the meantime, her teammate, Sofia Huerta, received a touching message from her brother Alex before embarking on the tournament.

"Dear Sofia, I want you to know that I miss my dearest friend every single day. The day I bid you farewell at the airport alongside Mom," Huerta, 30, emotionally recalled. "Having you in our lives is a true blessing. Your radiance brightens our world. We are incredibly grateful for your existence and cherish the opportunity to share this journey called life."

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The message persisted: "The World Cup transcends being just a soccer tournament; rather, it stands as a jubilant commemoration of life itself. It embodies passion in its most unadulterated state, portraying a captivating essence of artistic motion. It epitomizes the ultimate accomplishment of humanity and serves as a reflection of the aspirations and desires of the entire world. From the depths of our hearts, we hold a profound adoration for you, Sofia."

Huerta was not the sole teammate who received uplifting messages from her loved ones. Alana Cook also received words of guidance from her mother.

"Alana, not many people have the chance to represent their nation. Cherish this moment and show gratitude for the faith placed in you," Cook, 26, repeated. "Always remember the effort it took to reach this point. Let those memories of both happiness and heartbreak instill in you a fearless determination. Go out there and demonstrate that traditional shutdown defenders still have a place in the world. We adore you and we are rooting for you and Team USA."

Team USA is the current Women’s World Cup champion. The organization also holds the record for the most titles which is 4. In their first match, USA is set to take on Vietnam on Friday, July 21.