Sunday’s World Cup final loss to Japan may have taken a toll on the U.S. national team but as they returned home on Monday, they were greeted by cheerful fans who showed up to support them in New York’s Times Square.
“The support is really humbling,” striker Abby Wambach told reporters. “Truthfully, it’s probably fired up my spirit more than anything else could have.
“Obviously we are a bit devastated for not having won [the World Cup final] but we are trying to overcome it and see the positive in all this.”
Wambach said the team wanted to bring home the trophy and while they felt they played well enough to do that, the Japanese team proved to have a stronger will in the end.
“We are just proud to be a part of the accomplishment we have earned. I think we gathered the country back together again and there’s something to be said for that,” Wambach said.
“I am so disappointed for my teammates, myself and our country because I really feel like we had it and we were so close. Coming home to this kind of reception is truly one of the best things that’s ever happened.”
You might also be interested in reading:
* EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: We Lifted Women’s Soccer Around The World, U.S. Midfielder Carli Lloyd Tells Ib Talk Online
* Exclusive Interview: The U.S. Qualifying For The World Cup Is Not Even A Question, Says Alexi Lalas
* Football United: From Civil War In Sierra Leone To Success In The USA With Football Lending A Helping Hand
