Abby Wambach is a lot of things to a lot of people. She is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion. She holds the world record for international goals for both female and male players with an otherworldly 184 goals. She is a pioneer for the women’s game, serving as a role model for many girls and women around the world. She is an advocate for a number of causes, giving a voice to the voiceless. Wambach was in a word, dominant, in everything she did.
But she is also a human being, someone who has struggled and been through quite a journey on and off the pitch. She shares her deepest thoughts and feelings in Dey Street’s latest offering, Forward: A Memoir. It’s an intimate look into the brilliant career (and life) of a global sports superstar. You’ll get a never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes look at the national team system, the Olympics, and the world’s biggest stage, the World Cup.
This autobiography is one that doesn’t pull punches or hide secrets. It is an honest read, an incredibly thoughtful piece of literature from start to finish. It all starts with a poignant quote from Zora Neale Hurston and grows from there. She talk about things personal and controversial and never misses a beat. Yes, you’ll hear about her DUI, Hope Solo, and the unfair gap separating men’s and women’s soccer. You’ll hear about her family and her relationships on and off the field, the story told in a conversational manner that feels like it comes from a close friend.
Forward speaks of defying labels, breaking down walls, and achieving ultimate success. It is the perfect title as Wambach moved the game, and ultimately the world, forward. Simply put, she made the game and the world a better place, a more accepting place.
This book brings out the true challenges and difficulties Wambach faced in her life and career. The fact that she survived and excelled is an inspiration to all. She overcame addiction, injuries, and disappointment en route to becoming the greatest women’s soccer player to ever live. You’ll also hear about her life after soccer, a struggle to find her place in a world without a field and a goal.
You won’t truly know Abby Wambach until you read this one. It’s an absolute must-have for anyone that appreciates women’s soccer.
