On this day in 2004, Team USA soccer legend Mariel Margaret Hamm (1972–), No. 9, retired from the sport she helped transform.

A team player who gave everything she had, she once said, “You may get skinned knees and elbows, but it’s worth it if you score a spectacular goal.” Called “our most important female athlete ever” by her coach Anson Dorrance, Mia inspired millions while winning two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals.

Hamm played in 274 international matches and retired as the all-time career-scoring leader in international soccer with 158 goals. “Learn to differentiate between what is truly important and what can be addressed at another time,” she advised.

Born in Selma, Alabama, she discovered a deep passion for soccer as a young child and joined the U.S. National Team at age 15. At the University of North Carolina, she led her team to four consecutive NCAA championships from 1989–1993.

A dynamic and influential player, Hamm helped expand opportunities for girls in sports. “She laid to rest the insult ‘You play like a girl,’” Dorrance said.

Reflecting on the devotion of her young fans, Hamm said, “Why did the kids choose me? I hope it’s the same reason they chose our team. We represent what they want to be and can be; people who understand there is always a larger picture, and who play with pride and passion every single play.”

After the death of her brother Garrett in 1997, Hamm created the Mia Hamm Foundation to raise funds for bone marrow research and increase awareness of the profound gift of life.

“My goal is to leave a positive and lasting legacy in the research of bone marrow diseases and for every female athlete to have the opportunity to play the sports they love,” Hamm said.