Mia Hamm was born on March 17, 1972 in Selma, Alabama. She was the youngest of six children and grew up in a military family, moving frequently due to her father's service in the Air Force. Hamm was born with a condition known as congenital talipes equinovarus, more commonly referred to as clubfoot. Despite this physical challenge, she refused to let it hold her back and wore corrective shoes to help with her mobility.
From a young age, Hamm showed a natural talent for soccer. She began playing at the age of five and quickly excelled in the sport. By the time she was in high school, Hamm was already gaining attention for her skills on the field.
After graduating from high school, Hamm attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she played soccer for the Tar Heels. During her college career, she won four NCAA national championships and became a two-time ACC Female Athlete of the Year. Hamm's success at the collegiate level caught the eye of U.S. Women's National Team scouts, and she earned her first cap for the team in 1987.
Over the next decade, Hamm became a household name in women's soccer. She played a key role in leading the U.S. team to victory at the 1991 FIFA Women's World Cup, where she was also named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. Hamm continued to dominate on the international stage, breaking records and setting new standards for the sport.
Throughout her career, Hamm amassed an impressive list of accomplishments. She scored a total of 158 international goals, a record that stood until 2013 when it was surpassed by Abby Wambach. Hamm was a two-time Olympic gold medalist, winning in 1996 and 2004, and she also helped the U.S. team secure another FIFA Women's World Cup title in 1999.
Off the field, Hamm's influence extended far beyond soccer. She became a role model for young girls and a symbol of empowerment for women in sports. Hamm used her platform to advocate for gender equality and equal opportunities for female athletes, pioneering a new era for women's soccer.
In 2003, Hamm married former baseball player Nomar Garciaparra. The couple welcomed twin daughters, Grace and Ava, in 2007, followed by a son, Garrett, in 2012. Hamm's dedication to her family and her commitment to using her fame for good have made her a beloved figure both on and off the field.
Even after retiring from professional soccer, Hamm remains actively involved in the sport. She has continued to advocate for women's rights in sports and has worked to promote youth soccer programs across the country. Hamm's impact on the world of soccer and her legacy as one of the greatest players of all time will continue to inspire generations to come.