From the Pitch to Motherhood: Alex Morgan

From the Pitch to Motherhood: a series featuring one of the most recognised names in women's football, Alex Morgan. Renowned for her influence both on and off the field, Morgan's journey into motherhood adds a powerful new chapter to her remarkable story.

📸 via sandiegowave.com

A career built on Excellence.

Alex Morgan's football career has been nothing short of extraordinary. She made her debut for the U.S. Women's National Team in 2010 and has since scored 123 goals in 224 appearances. With the national team, she has won two FIFA Women's World Cups, and Olympic gold medal, and a bronze medal. A two-time U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year, Morgan also won an NWSL Championship with Portland Thorns FC and claimed the 2022 NWSL Golden Boot. At club level, she has played for several teams, including Orlando Pride, Tottenham Hotspur, and most recently, San Diego Wave FC, where she remains a leading figure in the NWSL.

Off the pitch, Morgan has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, pay equity, and improved conditions in women's sports. She was one of the lead paintiffs in the USWNT's landmark equal pay lawsuit and continues to use her platform to push for systemic change. In 2021, she co-founded TOGETHXR, a media company dedicated to elevating women's voices in sport and culture.

Becoming a Mother.

In May 2020, Alex entered a new chapter of her life when she and her husband, fellow professional soccer player, Servando Carrasco, welcomed their first child - a daughter named Charlie Elena Carrasco, born on May 7, 2020.

She announced the news to the world via Instagram writing - "At 11:30am on May 7 weighing 8lbs5oz, Charlie Elena Carrasco made her grand entrance into the world. She made us wait longer than expected, but I should have known she would do it her way and her way only. My super moon baby."

Five years later, on March 30 they announced the birth of the second child. A boy named Enzo. Announced via their Instagram writing - "Soaking it all up right now. Welcome to the world baby Enzo 💙"

Morgan reflected on her pregnancy in a heartfelt video, sharing the news with fans while also addressing her evolving journey both on and off the pitch.

The Balancing Act.

Alex returned to professional football just six months after giving birth, making her debut in the Women's Super League for Tottenham Hotspur in late 2020. Although her time in England was brief, it marked her first competitive appearance since becoming a mother and served as her return to elite football.

After her stint with Spurs, Morgan returned the U.S. and rejoined the NWSL with Orlando Pride, before later signing with San Diego Wave FC. There, she emerged as a standout performer and team leader.

One of the biggest sources of support throughout her journey has been her husband, Servando Carrasco, who also has a background in professional football.

During her second pregnancy, Morgan had already retired from professional play, which allowed her more time to focus on family life. This time around, she could fully experience moments she might have missed while returning to competition after the birth of her first child - choosing to prioritise well-being over pressure.

Changing the Conversation.

Alex Morgan's journey - from global football star to mother of two - has been a source of inspiration for footballers navigating motherhood motherhood. Her story challenges outdated narratives around what it means to be both a professioanl athlete and a parent, showing that a return to elite sport after childbirth is not only possible but achievable.

Morgan has also been outspoken about the lack of institutional support for mothers in football. From inconsistent maternity policies to limited access to childcare and the unrealistic expectation to "bounce back" after childbirth, she's used her platform to highlight the systemic issues that many athlete-mothers face. By addressing these challenges openly, she has helped spark more honest and necessary conversations within the sporting world.

Stories like Alex Morgan's matter. Her openness about motherhood, her willingness to push for change, and her leadership on and off the pitch serve as a powerful reminder: success in sport doesn't have to come in spite of motherhood it can thrive alongside it.

Final Thoughts.

What stands out most about Alex Morgan's journey is not just her success, but her vulnerability and honesty in showing what it truly takes to balance a demanding career with motherhood. She didn't just return to the game - she came back stronger, more grounded, and more determined to create space for other women to do the same.

Her story is a powerful reminder that motherhood is not the end of ambition, but its evolution. Whether you're an athlete, a working parent, or someone simply navigating the balance between personal and professional life, Morgan's example proves that it's possible to do both - with grace, grit, and the support of a strong community.