An emotional Emma Hayes said she was “desperate” to win a gold medal for the United States, saying the country made her who she is today.
Hayes led the U.S. women’s national team to the gold medal on Saturday, as Mallory Swanson’s goal sealed a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the Olympic final.
The result was a massive achievement for Hayes, who was only coaching her 10th game for the USWNT. The London native finished out the 2023-24 campaign with Chelsea before taking over as U.S. head coach in late May.
After the game, Hayes was interviewed on NBC by host Mike Tirico, who asked how she masterminded such an impressive turnaround so quickly after taking over.
“Just love,” Hayes replied. “I come from a place of wanting players to enjoy themselves. I’ve been at a club for 12 years and I’ve had huge success but I was desperate to do well for this country. I’m so emotional because it’s not every day you win a gold medal.”
Tirico asked Hayes why she was desperate to do it for the United States.
“I love America,” Hayes replied. “It made me, and I always say that.”
Hayes began her coaching career in 2002 with the Long Island Lady Riders, before taking over as head coach of Iona University and then coaching the Chicago Red Stars, then of WPS.
She then returned to England, taking over Chelsea and leading the Blues to seven league titles during her 12 years in charge.
Watch Hayes’ post-game interview
“I love America. It made me.”
An emotional Emma Hayes talks with Mike Tirico after achieving gold medal glory at the #ParisOlympics with the USWNT. pic.twitter.com/qZuOVcft31
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) August 10, 2024
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