### USWNT Prepares for Paris Olympics 2024 with New Roster Selections

After a triumphant gold medal run in France, the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) is gearing up for the Paris Olympics in 2024 under the direction of head coach Emma Hayes. Hayes has announced a 26-player training roster for their upcoming friendlies, ushering in a mix of returning Olympians and fresh faces.

Eighteen players from the team that secured gold this summer will be back, accompanied by notable inclusions such as North Carolina’s Ashley Sanchez and Angel City's Alyssa Thompson. This roster shuffle comes partly due to injuries affecting key players. Washington Spirit's Croix Bethune is out for the season with a torn meniscus, and Trinity Rodman is recovering from a back injury. Gotham FC’s Tierna Davidson will also miss out, while Crystal Dunn has been excused due to personal commitments.

Among the roster, six players are uncapped at the senior level, including Olympians Emily Sams and Hal Hershfelt. Emma Sears, who has had a standout rookie season with Racing Louisville FC, and Yazmeen Ryan from Gotham FC also make the list, bringing fresh talents into the national fold. Additionally, PSG center back Eva Gaetino returns for further evaluation.

Some returning players like defender Hailie Mace, who last appeared for the USWNT in November 2022, will look to prove they deserve a spot on the Olympic roster. Hayes is also planning a "Futures Camp" to run concurrently with the senior team’s January training camp in Los Angeles. This initiative aims to cast a wide net to identify rising stars from the NWSL, collegiate level, European leagues, and possibly even the USL Super League.

Hayes’s choices reflect a strategic approach toward building a robust team for the Paris Olympics. With more than half the roster having fewer than 20 USWNT appearances, it’s clear she is focused on developing new talent while celebrating existing accomplishments. Emma Hayes emphasized the importance of not resting on laurels, stating that the team’s focus remains firmly on the process and continuing to chase new heights.