SPORTS

This 'Hope' is not 'Solo'

By Rediff Sports Desk
June 16, 2015

The USA's Hope Solo pulls off a save during a team training session. Photographer: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images

Hope Solo remains a controversial figure.

If the United States' national team is faring well in the ongoing women's football World Cup, it is thanks to a brilliant showing by their 33-year-old goalkeeper, who won the 'Golden Glove' award at the last World Cup in Germany.

FIFA Women's World Cup reach exciting stage

However, while the two-time Olympic gold medallist is cool about talking about her on-field showing, she avoids comment on her personal life.

She is in the team despite a domestic violence incident involving her half-sister and nephew in June 2014.

US soccer player Hope Solo with former NFL player Jerramy Stevens. Photographer: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Solo was charged following an arrest for allegedly attacking her then 17-year-old nephew at her half-sister's home. She denied the accusation and claimed her nephew was the assailant in the incident.

A judge dismissed the case against Solo in January, though prosecutors have appealed to reopen it.

A US senator called US Soccer’s response to issues raised by the Solo case ‘tone deaf’ and her husband, Jerramy Stevens, a former NFL player, said she was victim of a ‘witch hunt’ because of the timing of the media reports.

USA goalkeeper Hope Solo in action. Photographer: Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Solo and her teammates, though, say they are focused on World Cup play.

She also seems to be sharing a good rapport with Nike, as despite various off-field allegations the American sportswear company has decided to stick with the goalkeeper.

Nike said their relationship with the two-time Olympic gold medallist hasn't changed and they will stick by her and the USA women's soccer team which is seeking an unprecedented third world crown.

The 33-year-old US goalkeeper was questioned when she called a cop a 'bitch' and additionally said that she would kick his ass, during her arrest for fourth-degree domestic violence assault.

Rediff Sports Desk

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