An Unforgettable Day

On July 10, 1999, the U.S. women’s soccer team won a historic Women’s World Cup final at the Rose Bowl, defeating China 5-4 in a penalty shootout after 120 minutes of scoreless play before a sellout crowd of 90,185, the largest ever to watch a women’s-only event. Among the U.S. team’s heroes that day were Michelle Akers, Kristine Lilly, Carla Overbeck, Joy Fawcett, Brandi Chastain, Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, and Briana Scurry. After Scurry blocked a shot by China’s Liu Ying, Chastain scored the winning penalty kick into the upper right-hand corner of the net. Coach Tony DiCicco called it "a storybook ending for a team that has its place in history." After the shot, Chastain tore off her jersey, dropped to her knees in elation, and celebrated in a shirtless pose that was seen around the world and became an enduring symbol of female strength, skill, and triumph. By hosting the Women’s World Cup final, the Rose Bowl became the only venue to host an Olympic gold medal match as well as the finals of both the men’s and women’s World Cups. The landmark victory helped change the paradigm for female sports and stands among the great athletic moments in U.S. history.

Pasadena, California · United States