Retired U.S. soccer legend Carli Lloyd is making waves at the World Cup — not as a player, but as a sharp analyst for Fox Sports. And she's doing it all while pregnant.
Lloyd, who announced her pregnancy in April, has been a fixture on Fox's coverage, earning rave reviews for her candid breakdowns. After the U.S. men's team crashed out with a 4-1 loss to Belgium on Monday, Lloyd didn't mince words during the post-game show. But it was a fellow analyst's shoutout that really turned heads.
Stu Holden, a former U.S. international and current Fox colleague, took to social media to highlight Lloyd's extraordinary effort this summer.
“Moment of appreciation for the work of @CarliLloyd this summer,” Holden wrote. “Multiple back to back TV appearances in different cities with travel, late nights, insight and an incredible work ethic … oh btw while pregnant. Proud to be your teammate.”
Lloyd, who is due to welcome her second child in September, responded with characteristic grace. “You’re the best! Everyone has had some tough travel and hours of working. Not to mention all of the people behind the cameras. I am soaking it up and love being part of this incredible group of people.”
Lloyd's Unfiltered Take on USMNT's Exit
During Fox's post-game analysis, Lloyd didn't hold back. She questioned the team's mentality before they even stepped onto the pitch. “I felt like they lost the game before they even stepped out on the pitch,” Lloyd said. “And I’m not sure why, and I don’t know the reasons. But just from the beginning: chasing. Tentative. Scared. Just not confident on the ball.”
She singled out Christian Pulisic, who lost possession 11 times in a lackluster performance. “You wanted some of those big-time players to step up in big-time moments,” Lloyd said. “And I gotta be honest: I was a bit disappointed in Christian Pulisic. Whether he wants to be the star of this team or not, we didn’t see enough from him in this particular game — and, really, the whole World Cup. Little glimpses here and there.” Lloyd's comments echoed Sydney Leroux's recent criticism of Pulisic for resting during the tournament.
Despite the tough loss, Lloyd also took time to celebrate the team's overall run. “This team has united the country. They have gotten American fans to fall in love with them, and there is a bright future,” she said. “But this is just a real disappointing loss to go out on.”
Lloyd's behind-the-scenes hustle during the World Cup, while balancing pregnancy, has impressed many. As Holden noted, her work ethic is second to none — a testament to the same grit that made her a two-time World Cup champion on the field. The sports world has taken notice, with many praising her dedication. Even amid the disappointment of the USMNT's exit, Lloyd's professionalism and insight have been a bright spot, as seen in Alex Morgan's patriotic jacket stealing the show at the same match.
