2019 October Legends Closing October 19
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/20/2019
In 2000, United States soccer legend Michelle Akers was named the FIFA Female Player of the Century alongside China’s superb forward Sun Wen. Akers was a founding member of the United States Women’s Soccer team in 1985, scoring the first goal for the Stars and Stripes in a 2-2 draw against Denmark. Akers led the USA to the title in the inaugural FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1991, scoring 10 goals to win the Golden Boot and notching both goals in the Final against fierce rivals Norway in the United States’ 2-1 victory. After the 1991 World Cup, Akers transitioned from striker to midfielder, leading the United States to victory in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics and the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup before retiring with a staggering record of 107 goals in 155 caps. In 1998, Akers was the first woman to receive the prestigious FIFA Order of Merit, and alongside Mia Hamm was one of two women selected to the FIFA 100 list, a collection of the 125 greatest living soccer players compiled by the incomparable Pele.
Today, Akers is widely acknowledged as the most important builder of the United States Women’s Soccer program by peers and pundits alike. Despite being treated like a tackling sled by opposing defenses, Akers’ strength and tenacious playing style catapulted the United States to the upper echelon of world soccer -- a tier inhabited solely by the inimitable Red, White, and Blue.
Offered in this lot is the 2000 FIFA Woman Player of the Century award presented to Michelle Akers by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association. This award takes the shape of a silver soccer ball suspended over a plinth. It measures approximately 11 inches tall and stands on a base that measures 10 ½ x 5 ¼ inches. Etched on the base of the trophy is “Michelle Akers” and “FIFA Woman Player of the Century”. Etched on the underside of the base is “Conception Atelier Roger Pfund Carouge / Switzerland”. This monumental award is in great condition and comes with a LOA signed by Michelle Akers herself. A portion of the proceeds shall benefit the Michelle Akers Horse Rescue and Outreach Inc.