The U. S. entered this year’s Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand as favorites after winning 4 world titles, adding back-to-back titles, but the team suffered an exit in the round of 16, where they lost to Sweden 5-4. in penalties.
The USWNT’s crusade in Australia was spectacular: it was the first time they were eliminated before the Women’s World Cup semi-final. Their poor performance also led to the eventual departure of coach Vlatko Andonovski.
Ahead of the World Cup, Netflix had announced that its cameras would focus on the U. S. team’s players and coaches during the tournament, giving the audience a glimpse of the team.
The docuseries will feature veteran champions Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan, 18-year-old rising star Alyssa Thompson and World Cup debutants Savannah DeMelo, Lynn Williams, and Kristie Mewis.
“The open-air sports series will allow audiences to get up close and personal with the players and coaches of the U. S. women’s national team and reveal a glimpse of the most decorated team in soccer history,” Netflix said in a statement.
“Viewers will be able to see first-hand the pressure, euphoria, joy and struggles experienced by those world-class athletes as they attempt to win their third consecutive World Cup title. Issues ranging from injuries, complaints, and doubts to equivalent salaries and maintaining a legacy come to light as the narrative unfolds.
The U. S. players after the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 met in Group E between Portugal and the United States at Eden Park on August 1, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo via Jose Breton/Action Pics/NurPhoto Getty Images)
“The series will capture all the collective and private preparation on the road to the 2023 FIFA World Cup. Throughout the tournament, the public will notice how this team is built on the shoulders of those who played before them and how they continue. Breaking the glass ceiling to achieve the equality at stake for the women of the future.
The show, directed by two-time Emmy winner Rebecca Gitlitz and produced by Connor Schell, will also highlight issues such as racial diversity, LGBTQ rights, equal pay, circle of family and motherhood.
In the past, Netflix has produced several docuseries such as Formula 1: Drive To Survive, Break Point, Bad Sport, Sunderland’ Till I Die, and others.