Emily Sonnett’s International Career: Goals, Caps, and Longevity with the USWNT

Emily Ann Sonnett, born on November 25, 1993, in Marietta, Georgia, is a well-known American soccer player. She plays as a defender for NJ/NY Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and represents the United States on the national team.

Sonnett is versatile on the field, able to play as a center back, full back, or defensive midfielder. Sonnett’s soccer journey began at a young age when she joined the North Atlanta Soccer Association (NASA) in 2003.

Alongside her twin sister, Emma, Sonnett won multiple titles with NASA, including two Georgia State Cup Championships. Her youth career reached its peak when she was named to the U-17 Best XI at the 2011 US Youth Soccer National Championship Series.

For high school, Emily Sonnett attended Fellowship Christian School, where she shined as a soccer star, ending her high school career as the school’s leading scorer.

Emily Sonnett was named the Gatorade Georgia Girls Soccer Player of the Year for 2011-2012, a first for an athlete from her school. Her outstanding performance earned her a spot at the University of Virginia, where she played college soccer.

During her time at the University of Virginia, Sonnett quickly established herself as a key player. Originally recruited as a midfielder, she transitioned to center back early in her freshman year and continued to excel in this role.

Over her college career, Emily Sonnett led her team to the NCAA tournament multiple times and earned numerous accolades, including being named the 2015 ESPNW Soccer Player of the Year.

After a stellar college career, Sonnett entered the NWSL, where she was the first overall pick in the 2016 NWSL College Draft, selected by the Portland Thorns FC.

Emily Sonnett made an immediate impact, scoring in key matches and helping the Thorns win the NWSL Championship in 2017. Sonnett also had a successful loan spell with Sydney FC in Australia, where she contributed both goals and assists.

Internationally, Sonnett’s journey with the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) began with youth camps and tournaments, where she played a vital role in winning titles. She earned her first senior team cap in 2015 during a friendly against Brazil and has since become a regular feature in the squad.

Sonnett’s international career highlights include being part of the USWNT squad that won the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and earning a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She has also helped the USWNT secure several SheBelieves Cup titles and played a crucial role in their Olympic qualifying campaigns.

Sonnett’s adaptability on the field has been a significant asset to the USWNT. She has played in various positions across the backline and midfield, providing depth and versatility to the team. Her defensive skills and ability to contribute to the attack have made her a key player in critical matches.

As of 2024, Emily Sonnett continues to be a vital member of the USWNT, bringing experience, skill, and leadership to the squad. Her longevity and consistency at the international level are testaments to her dedication and passion for the game. Whether defending the goal or pushing forward in attack, Sonnett remains a crucial figure in American soccer, with a legacy that continues to grow.