I never felt the same passion for the game in the States and there were a lot of headaches, a lot of obstacles to overcome - it didn't just run itself for the love of the game because soccer is not the No. 1 sport as it is in Europe.

I've learned that winning isn't everything, and it's more about the journey. But at the end of the day, I just want to stand on the podium with the gold medal.

I know that I'm breaking down barriers. And I know that in the end I'm doing a great thing.

I wear my dad's cross. It's very important to me. I hang it in my locker before each game.

All my life, since the time I was little, has been a long distraction. At least that is the way some people want to perceive it, but for me, it's given me a lot of strength.

I still don't buy the idea that I'm a 'sex symbol.'

L.A. is a bit strange. It doesn't seem like the real world.