US soccer icon Michelle Akers was presented with this FIFA Order of Merit medallion in 1998. Akers was the first woman awarded the FIFA Order of Merit, and there was no more deserving recipient than Akers. The All-American at UCF scored the first goal in United States Women’s National Soccer Team history in 1985 and led the USWNT to the inaugural FIFA Women’s World Cup title in 1991. In 1996, Akers and the USWNT won the first women’s soccer competition on the Olympic level, earning gold at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia against a formidable China team.

This Order of Merit consists of two primary medallions, both attached to blue and yellow ribbons. One medallion is worn like a necklace, while the second is for pinning to one’s chest. Etched in high-relief on both medals is the FIFA logo. A smaller pin with the same etching is present as well for a total of three items. These medallions come in the original blue presentation box. This lot comes with a LOA from Michelle Akers herself. A portion of the proceeds shall benefit the Michelle Akers Horse Rescue & Outreach Inc. This offered lot is currently being displayed at the Soccer Hall of Fame and will be shipped to the winning bidder at the conclusion of the auction. If the winning bidder chooses, an arrangement can be made to loan the FIFA Order of Merit back to the museum.

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