Lynn Biyendolo Bio
Lynn Biyendolo, born Lynn Raenie Williams on May 21, 1993, is an American professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Seattle Reign FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. Biyendolo is recognized as the NWSL’s all-time leading scorer and was drafted out of Pepperdine University by the Western New York Flash in 2015. Throughout her career, she has garnered multiple championships and accolades, establishing herself as a pivotal figure in women’s soccer.
Early Life and Background
Lynn Biyendolo was born in Fresno, California, to Christine and David Williams. She attended Bullard High School, where she excelled on the varsity soccer team, earning all-league and all-area honors throughout her four years. Biyendolo set a school record with 117 career goals, finishing her high school career with 47 assists. In her senior year, she was named to the ESPN RISE All-American third team and scored 50 goals, leading her team to county and section titles.
Following her successful high school career, Biyendolo attended Pepperdine University from 2011 to 2014, where she played for the Pepperdine Waves. During her freshman season, she started all 20 games, finishing third on the team with six goals and leading with eight assists. Her performance earned her several accolades, including West Coast Conference (WCC) Freshman of the Year. Over her college career, she continued to break records and received multiple honors, solidifying her reputation as a standout player.
Path to Soccer
Biyendolo was selected sixth overall by the Western New York Flash during the 2015 NWSL College Draft. She made her professional debut on April 12, 2015, against Seattle Reign FC. In her rookie season, she scored four goals in 17 appearances. However, it was in the 2016 season that she truly emerged as a star, scoring 11 goals and winning the NWSL Most Valuable Player award. Biyendolo’s contributions helped the Flash secure their first NWSL Championship that year.
After the Flash relocated and rebranded as North Carolina Courage, Biyendolo continued to excel, leading the team to three consecutive NWSL Shields and winning additional championships in 2018 and 2019. Her success on the field established her as a key player in the league and a role model for aspiring athletes.
Lynn Biyendolo Career
Early Career (2015–2016)
Biyendolo’s career began with the Western New York Flash, where she quickly made an impact. In her debut season, she contributed significantly to the team’s performance, but it was in 2016 that she truly shone. With her 11 goals, she was tied for the league’s top scorer and earned the Golden Boot for having the most assists. Her remarkable performance led to her being named the NWSL Most Valuable Player and a member of the Best XI.
Biyendolo’s playoff performance was equally impressive, scoring crucial goals that propelled her team to the championship. In the final, she scored a game-tying header that led to a penalty shootout victory over the Washington Spirit, marking a significant milestone in her early career.
Breakthrough (2017–2021)
After the Flash’s rebranding to North Carolina Courage, Biyendolo continued to thrive. In 2017, she scored nine goals and was instrumental in the team’s success, helping them win the NWSL Shield. The following year, she had a standout season, scoring 14 goals and earning multiple Player of the Week honors. Her performance in 2018 helped the Courage secure their second consecutive NWSL Shield and their first championship title.
Biyendolo’s career saw her take on international challenges as well, including a loan to Western Sydney Wanderers in Australia. She returned to the Courage and continued to be a key player, contributing to the team’s success in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Biyendolo’s signature work includes her record-breaking achievements in the NWSL, including being named the all-time leading scorer in 2024. She has won multiple championships and accolades, including the NWSL Most Valuable Player award and several NWSL Shields.
Lynn Biyendolo Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Lynn Biyendolo has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances in soccer, including recognition for her contributions to her teams and her individual achievements.
Lynn Biyendolo Awards Won
Biyendolo has won several prestigious awards, including the NWSL Most Valuable Player award in 2016 and multiple NWSL Championships with her teams.
Lynn Biyendolo Family
Lynn Biyendolo is married to Marley Biyendolo, whom she met at Pepperdine University. The couple tied the knot on December 8, 2024, and Lynn began using her married name in 2025.
Personal Life
Lynn Biyendolo has shared insights into her personal life, including her cultural heritage and the significance of her married name. She has expressed pride in her family’s history and the unique tradition of name-gifting in her husband’s culture. The couple announced they were expecting their first child on October 25, 2025.
