I put all of my energy into building the game and giving women opportunities and, to put everything into it and then to be deemed selfish or not a good team player or outspoken, it's been hard. But at the same time, I'm going to get the critics and I know that.

I have no personal beef with Brandi Chastain. There's nothing personal.

Unfortunately, people think I'm negative and bitter all the time, and that's not the case.

[My mother] was the strength of our family, and I didn't realize that until I got a little bit older.

I think the concept of seeking fame and fortune in women's football in the States is a bit idyllic.

In front of the world, all of a sudden I'm a great athlete and I'm put into an environment with 25 other women and I'm expected to go to team meals, team functions.

It was hard. I came to grips with a lot of difficulties that I've overcome. Each challenge kind of makes you who you are. It wasn't always a good thing. I have my own struggles in my life because of the things I was forced to overcome.