Emily Sonnett Bio
Emily Ann Sonnett (born November 25, 1993) is an American professional soccer player who plays for Gotham FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. She can play the positions of center back, full back, or defensive midfielder. Sonnett played college soccer for the Virginia Cavaliers. She was drafted first overall by the Portland Thorns in the 2016 NWSL College Draft. She has won three NWSL Championships, with the Thorns in 2017, the Washington Spirit in 2021, and Gotham in 2025. At the international level, Sonnett was on the United States squad that won the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She is a seven-time winner of the invitational SheBelieves Cup.
Early Life and Background
Sonnett was born in Marietta, Georgia, to Bill and Jane Sonnett. She has a twin sister, Emma, who played soccer for the University of Georgia. Sonnett began playing for North Atlanta Soccer Association (NASA) in 2003, where she earned back-to-back Georgia State Cup Championship titles in 2007 and 2008. In 2013, she helped NASA 12 Elite II win the U-19 national title at the US Youth Soccer National Championship Series, earning the Golden Ball award as the best player at the tournament. Sonnett attended Fellowship Christian School in Roswell, Georgia, graduating in 2012. During her high school career, she was named the 2011–2012 Gatorade Georgia Girls Soccer Player of the Year and was the first athlete from her school to win the award. She signed her national letter of intent to play for the University of Virginia in 2012.
Path to Soccer
At the University of Virginia, Sonnett transitioned from midfield to center back early in her freshman year due to injuries within the team. She played a pivotal role in leading the Cavaliers to their first College Cup in 22 seasons and was named a finalist for the Hermann Trophy in her senior year. After graduating with a degree in sociology, Sonnett was drafted first overall by the Portland Thorns FC in the 2016 NWSL College Draft. Her professional debut came on April 17, 2016, and she quickly established herself as a key player for the team.
Emily Sonnett Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Sonnett’s career began with the Portland Thorns FC, where she made an immediate impact. She scored her first professional goal in the NWSL championship semi-final, although the Thorns did not win that year. In 2017, she helped the Thorns secure the NWSL Championship, contributing with an assist in the final. Sonnett was recognized for her performance by being named to the NWSL Team of the Month and was a finalist for Defender of the Year in 2018.
Breakthrough (2021–2022)
After a successful stint with the Thorns, Sonnett was traded to the Washington Spirit in December 2020. She played a crucial role in helping the Spirit win their first NWSL Championship in 2021. Unfortunately, her 2022 season was marred by injuries, including broken ribs and a foot injury. Despite these setbacks, Sonnett continued to be a valuable player for her teams.
Notable Works and Milestones
Sonnett’s signature work includes her contributions to the United States national team, where she was part of the squad that won the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games. She is also known for her leadership on the field and her ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Emily Sonnett Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Emily Sonnett has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances in soccer, including recognitions for her defensive skills and contributions to her teams.
Emily Sonnett Awards Won
Emily Sonnett has won several prestigious awards, including three NWSL Championships with different teams and individual accolades for her performances in college and professional soccer.
Emily Sonnett Family
Emily Sonnett comes from a supportive family background. Her parents, Bill and Jane Sonnett, have been instrumental in her journey as an athlete. She has a twin sister, Emma, who also played soccer at the collegiate level.
Personal Life
Sonnett maintains close friendships with several of her teammates, including Lindsey Horan and Caitlin Foord, with whom she shares matching tattoos. She is known for her dedication to the sport and her strong connections within the soccer community.
