Briana Scurry is one of the most influential goalkeepers in soccer history. She played a key role in the United States Women's National Team (USWNT) for over a decade. Her incredible reflexes, fearless attitude, and leadership made her a legend.
From winning the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup to breaking barriers for Black women in soccer, her impact goes beyond the field. Let’s take a closer look at her career, playing style, and lasting legacy.
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Early Life and College Career
Briana Scurry was born on September 7, 1971, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She grew up in a sports-loving family, playing multiple sports as a child. However, soccer became her true passion.
She attended Anoka High School, where she dominated as a goalkeeper. Her athleticism and shot-stopping ability set her apart from a young age.
In 1990, she earned a scholarship to play at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. At UMass, she became one of the best college goalkeepers in the country. She recorded 37 shutouts, setting a school record.
Her performances caught the attention of USWNT scouts, setting her up for an international career.
Breaking into the USWNT
In 1993, Scurry made her debut for the USWNT. At that time, the team already had strong goalkeepers, but she quickly proved herself.
By 1994, she became the team’s first-choice goalkeeper. Her quick reflexes, leadership, and fearless shot-stopping made her an essential part of the squad.
She played in her first major tournament at the 1995 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Though the U.S. finished third, Scurry gained valuable experience.
This was just the beginning of her journey to greatness.
1996 Olympics: A Historic Gold Medal
Women’s soccer made its Olympic debut at the 1996 Atlanta Games. The USWNT entered the tournament as favorites, and Scurry played a key role in their success.
She made several crucial saves throughout the competition. In the final, the U.S. defeated China 2-1 to win the first-ever Olympic gold medal in women’s soccer.
Scurry became a household name. Her confidence and clutch performances showed she was one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
1999 Women’s World Cup: A Career-Defining Moment
The 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup changed women’s soccer forever. Held in the U.S., it drew massive crowds and media attention.
Scurry started every game, delivering dominant performances. She kept four clean sheets in six matches, proving why she was the best.
The Iconic Final
The final against China at the Rose Bowl remains one of the most famous matches in soccer history. After a 0-0 draw, the game went to a penalty shootout.
Scurry made the game-winning save, diving to stop Liu Ying’s penalty. This gave Brandi Chastain the chance to score the iconic winning goal.
That moment cemented Scurry’s legacy. She became a World Cup champion and an American sports hero.
Challenges and Comebacks
After the 1999 World Cup, Scurry continued as the USWNT’s top goalkeeper. She played in the 2000 Olympics, where the U.S. won silver.
However, after the 2003 Women’s World Cup, she briefly lost her starting spot. A younger goalkeeper, Hope Solo, emerged as competition.
Despite this, Scurry remained focused. In 2004, she reclaimed her starting role and helped the U.S. win another Olympic gold medal.
Her ability to bounce back showed her mental toughness. She never gave up, even when facing challenges.
The 2007 World Cup Controversy
The 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup was one of the toughest moments of Scurry’s career.
She started the tournament as a backup to Hope Solo. However, in the semifinals against Brazil, head coach Greg Ryan made a shocking decision. He benched Solo and started Scurry instead.
The U.S. lost 4-0, their worst-ever World Cup defeat. Solo later criticized the decision, causing controversy within the team.
Despite the difficult situation, Scurry remained professional. She took responsibility and handled the pressure with class.
This was her final World Cup appearance, but her impact on the game remained strong.
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Professional Career and Club Soccer
Scurry also played in professional leagues, helping grow women’s soccer in the U.S.
She played for teams in the WUSA (Women’s United Soccer Association) and later in WPS (Women’s Professional Soccer).
In 2009, while playing for the Washington Freedom, she suffered a serious concussion. The injury forced her to retire in 2010.
Her playing career ended, but her influence on soccer was far from over.
Legacy and Impact
Briana Scurry’s impact goes beyond her achievements on the field. She paved the way for future generations in multiple ways.
1. A Trailblazer for Black Women in Soccer
Scurry was one of the first Black women to become a star in U.S. soccer. She showed young players that race and background don’t define success.
Her presence helped increase diversity in the sport. Today, players like Crystal Dunn and Catarina Macario follow in her footsteps.
2. A Pioneer for Women’s Soccer
Scurry played in a time when women’s soccer received little support. She helped grow the sport, making it more professional and respected.
Her performances in 1996 and 1999 inspired millions of girls to play soccer.
3. A Role Model for Goalkeepers
Young goalkeepers still study her style. She was quick off her line, had lightning-fast reflexes, and commanded her defense with authority.
Her fearless approach remains an example for modern goalkeepers.
4. An Advocate for Concussion Awareness
After her career-ending concussion, Scurry became an advocate for brain injury awareness. She speaks openly about the dangers of concussions in sports.
She pushes for better treatment and prevention to protect future athletes.
What Is Briana Scurry Doing Now?
Since retiring, Scurry has taken on many new roles.
- Motivational Speaker – She shares her journey with audiences worldwide.
- Broadcaster & Analyst – She provides expert analysis on soccer games.
- Author – In 2022, she released her book "My Greatest Save," detailing her life and career.
- Advocate for Women’s Sports – She fights for equal pay, better conditions, and greater opportunities for female athletes.
She continues to inspire people on and off the field.
Final Thoughts: A Goalkeeping Legend
Briana Scurry’s career is a story of excellence, resilience, and leadership. She won a World Cup, earned two Olympic gold medals, and helped grow women’s soccer.
Briana faced challenges but never gave up. She broke barriers, inspired young players, and set new standards for goalkeepers.
Even in retirement, her legacy continues. Briana Scurry is more than a soccer legend—she’s a true icon.
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