Became the first ever player to score three goals in the final of a FIFA Women’s World Cup, during the United States’ 5-2 victory over Japan. She scored the goals in the first 16 minutes, effectively deciding the match and ensuring the American team would win a record third World Cup. She received the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament and the Silver Boot for her six goals. She has also been shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or/World Player of the Year Award (to be announced on January 11).Now 33, she has played 211 times for the US and scored 79 goals (at December 31). A big game player, she also scored gold medal winning goals in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.