Olivia Moultrie Bio
Olivia Lynn Moultrie (born September 17, 2005) is an American professional soccer player who plays as an attacking midfielder for the Portland Thorns of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She is recognized as the youngest American women’s soccer player to turn professional, achieving this milestone at the age of 13 in 2019. In 2021, Moultrie filed a lawsuit against the NWSL that successfully removed the league’s age limit, allowing her to debut for the Thorns at age 15. In 2023, she was called up to the United States national team, marking a significant step in her burgeoning career.
Early Life and Background
Olivia Moultrie was born in Santa Clarita, California, to K.C. and Jessica Moultrie, both of whom participated in college athletics. Raised in the Canyon Country district of Santa Clarita, she began training in soccer at the young age of four. By fifth grade, Moultrie was homeschooled to focus on her soccer development and became the first girl to play on a boys’ club team in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy system. At the age of 11, she accepted a full scholarship offer to play soccer for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, becoming the youngest girl to publicly accept a college offer at the time. Shortly thereafter, she traveled to Europe for training, and her family even planned a move to Lyon, France, to facilitate her professional career. However, these plans changed when she signed with the Portland Thorns FC in 2019, leading her to relocate to Wilsonville, Oregon.
Path to Soccer
Moultrie’s journey into professional soccer began when she announced her decision to turn professional in February 2019, signing a representation deal with the Wasserman Media Group. She also signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Nike, which led her to forfeit her college eligibility. Moultrie joined the Portland Thorns FC academy and trained with the senior team, participating in exhibition matches. However, she faced restrictions due to the NWSL’s age limit prohibiting players under 18 from signing professional contracts. Despite these challenges, she made her first appearance for the senior team in an exhibition match against the United States under-23 team on March 27, 2019.
Olivia Moultrie Career
Early Career (2019-2021)
In May 2021, Moultrie took a significant step by filing an antitrust lawsuit against the NWSL, challenging the league’s age limit. The lawsuit was successful, leading to a temporary restraining order that allowed her to compete for a roster spot on the Thorns. On June 30, 2021, she signed a three-year contract with the Thorns, becoming the youngest player to sign a contract with an NWSL team. Moultrie made her professional debut on July 3, 2021, coming on as a substitute in a match against Racing Louisville. She made her first start and recorded her first assist on August 7 against Washington Spirit.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
Moultrie’s breakthrough moment came on August 19, 2021, when she scored her first professional goal during the semifinal of the International Champions Cup against Houston Dash. She continued to impress, scoring her first NWSL league goal on June 12, 2022, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat. On October 29, 2022, she played in the NWSL Championship game, contributing to the Thorns’ victory and earning her first NWSL Championship title. In February 2024, Moultrie extended her contract with the Thorns through the 2026 season, solidifying her position in the team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Moultrie’s signature work includes her impressive performance in the NWSL, where she has set multiple records, including being the youngest player in Thorns history to score twice in a single match. She led the team in scoring during the 2025 season and set the NWSL record for most goals scored by a teenager, surpassing Jaedyn Shaw. Additionally, she has received accolades such as the Supporters’ Player of the Year award from the Rose City Riveters.
Olivia Moultrie Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Olivia Moultrie has received several nominations for her outstanding performances in soccer, showcasing her talent and impact on the field.
Olivia Moultrie Awards Won
Olivia Moultrie has won multiple awards, including the Supporters’ Player of the Year award, recognizing her contributions and achievements in the NWSL.
Olivia Moultrie Family
Olivia Moultrie is the daughter of K.C. and Jessica Moultrie, both of whom have a background in athletics. Her family has been supportive of her soccer journey from a young age.
Personal Life
Information regarding Olivia Moultrie’s personal life is limited, as she maintains a focus on her professional career. She is known to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
