Mallory Swanson has long been a standout figure in American soccer. Known for her speed, skill, and electric performances, Swanson recently made headlines for news both on and off the field. From her Olympic triumph with the United States Women’s National Team to her exciting personal life milestone, Swanson continues to captivate fans nationwide.

Mallory Swanson: A Year of Milestones

In 2024, Mallory Swanson played a pivotal role in leading the USWNT to gold at the Paris Olympics. Her game-winning goal in the final against Brazil not only secured the championship but also marked her 100th cap for the national team. This feat solidifies her legacy as one of the country’s premier forwards.

However, 2025 brought a different kind of excitement. Both Swanson and her husband, Major League Baseball star Dansby Swanson, announced they are expecting their first child. The pair, often celebrated as one of Chicago’s most recognizable sports couples, shared the news on Instagram. This happy revelation followed months of speculation about Swanson’s absence from both the USWNT and her NWSL club, Chicago Stars FC. Read more about their announcement and what it means for Chicago sports.

Impact on Club and Country

Mallory’s absence this season has certainly had an effect. The Chicago Stars have struggled without her dynamic play, after narrowly reaching the playoffs last year thanks to her consistent brilliance. The USWNT, meanwhile, has seen coaches experimenting with new attacking options to fill the void left by her unavailability. Despite these challenges, both teams have expressed full support for Swanson’s decision and look forward to her eventual return.

For a deeper look at the Swanson family's journey and the broader context surrounding their exciting news, check out this detailed feature on The Athletic. The piece highlights how Swanson’s personal and professional accomplishments continue to shape her legacy on and off the field.

A Power Couple in Sports

The Swansons’ relationship has been in the public eye since 2017. They married in 2022 and have since become a fixture in Chicago sports culture, with both of their careers flourishing in the city. Dansby Swanson, currently in his third season with the Cubs, has matched his wife’s commitment to excellence with impressive performances on the baseball diamond. As the couple welcomes their first child, their fans eagerly await the next chapter in their inspiring story.

You can read more about the couple’s journey and latest updates in this USA TODAY article.

What’s Next for Mallory Swanson?

While it is unlikely that Mallory Swanson will play again in 2025, her impact on soccer remains significant. Her goal-scoring feats, team leadership, and resilience after injury continue to influence young players and fans. The Chicago Stars and USWNT await her return, confident that Swanson will come back stronger than ever.

In the meantime, the soccer world celebrates Mallory Swanson’s accomplishments and looks forward to her next appearance—both on and off the pitch.