The FIFA Women's World Cup had some incredible celebratory moments over its month-long run — but it also marked the end of the road for many players who have spent decades in the sport.
For Abby Wambach, 35, a 15-year-veteran on the U.S. Women's National Team — who just happens to have scored more goals in any international tournament of any player ever — the gold medal-winning final was her last. But her teammates weren't going to let her go out without paying some respect.
When Wambach was put into play in the 79th minute, not only did the crowd recognize her with mad cheers, but Carli Lloyd (who had already scored three goals within the first 16 minutes of the game) slapped her captain's band onto Wambach's arm, letting the world know exactly who led that team:
In an emotional video released today, Wambach explained how much the team has meant to her, and what winning the World Cup would mean, particularly this time around.
We're glad you got to live out your fairy tale, Abby.
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