Women’s soccer made political history this week. Gotham FC became the first National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to celebrate a championship win at the White House—and ELLE had an exclusive invite to the ceremony, which was held in the East Room, the largest space in the executive residence.
During the event, President Joe Biden delivered remarks about all the ways in which women are leading the fight for equality and pay equity in sports. “They are no stranger to adversity,” Biden said about the Gotham players. “When fans watch you play, they also see the power and example off the field as well.”
“And, by the way, everyone watches women’s sports,” he added with a smile.
After his speech, former Gotham player and two-time FIFA World Cup winner Ali Krieger took the podium, while her former teammates, who wore Argent for the event, stood behind her. “This moment is not just about titles or trophies, it’s about paving the way for them,” she said. “Being the first is historic, but it’s even more important we ensure that we are not the last.”
Krieger and Gotham forward Midge Purce, who was named the 2023 NWSL Championship MVP, then gifted Biden with an honorary Gotham jersey.
After the ceremony, ELLE caught up with Krieger and Purce on the White House lawn. Krieger was dressed in head-to-toe Thom Browne, which she said felt “very fitting for today.” Krieger also spoke about the importance of the upcoming presidential election: “Don’t forget to register and get out to vote.” Purce echoed the sentiment. “I’m voting,” she said. “Don’t forget to vote this November.”
See some photos from the historic White House event, below.
Women’s Soccer Goes to the White House
Rose is the Senior Editor of Features & Special Projects at ELLE.com overseeing features and projects about women’s issues. She is an accomplished and compassionate storyteller and editor who excels in obtaining exclusive interviews and unearthing compelling features.