How Alyssa Thompson’s Journey to Fame Accelerated into Hyperspeed

Meet Alyssa Thompson: The Newest Star of the NWSL

An 18-year-old prodigy from Los Angeles has made history by becoming the first high school player to be selected first in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) draft. Alyssa Thompson, preferred to stay close to home, has become the No. 1 pick for Angel City FC, a team that’s considered the most compelling franchise in the NWSL, attracting celebrity owners and die-hard fans. The NWSL, which is coming off viewership and attendance records, is hoping to cash in on new broadcasting rights, and Thompson is seen as the cornerstone to its growth and potential.

The league that suffered abuse and safety scandals that endangered its foundation is now investing in women’s sports, and Thompson is here to lead the way. She’s also a contender for a spot on the US Women’s National Team, who’ll be aiming for its third straight World Cup title from July in Australia and New Zealand.

This pick is nothing more than a formality, and while Thompson’s celebration with her sister Gisele is shared and silent, the excitement around her is palpable. Her friends and family encircle Thompson on elevated chairs and hot-pink and white beanbags as the NWSL commissioner comes into frame on the TVs bolted to the walls to announce Angel City FC selecting Thompson. An emotional Thompson covers her mouth with her hands as cheers erupt around her.

Thompson’s accomplishments are numerous. She and her sister became the first high schoolers to sign NIL deals with Nike, and before becoming the NWSL’s first high schooler to be taken first in the draft, she starred for the U.S. team at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and debuted for the U.S. senior women’s national team.

One thing is for sure: Thompson’s talent and passion for soccer has put her in an excellent position to bring the NWSL, and women’s soccer as a whole, to new levels.



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