The 1999 Women’s World Cup was a milestone for women’s soccer in the United States. The powerful USWNT, led by do-it-all forward Mia Hamm, marched to victory in the third edition of the vaunted tournament. This Women’s World Cup was held on US soil for the first time, and saw the United States face off against China in the final match of the tournament, held at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. Both teams were undefeated heading into the final, with legendary forward Sun Wen claiming the Golden Ball Award for the tournament’s highest scorer. After extra time neither team had scored a goal, leading to a terse penalty shootout. The USWNT was perfect, with Brandi Chastain ripping the game winning penalty into the back of the net to deliver the title to the United States. Her celebration was instant, and the image of Chastain clutching her white shirt in her hands while kneeling on the verdant green turf of the Rose Bowl is iconic.

     This matted “Sportswomen of the Year” Sports Illustrated magazine cover has been signed by 20 members of the USWNT 1999 World Cup winning squad. Signatures include Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, Brandi Chastain, Briana Scurry, Kristine Lilly, Lorrie Fair, Kate Sobrero, Tiffany Milbrett, Joy Fawcett, Christie Pearce, Shannon MacMillan, Sara Whalen, Tracy Ducar, Carla Overbeck, Danielle Fotopoulos, Saskia Webber, Cindy Parlow, Tisha Venturini, Tiffany Roberts, and Michelle Akers. The signatures have been written in blue marker on the white matted border of the displayed piece. This item is accompanied by a LOA from Steve Grad of Beckett Authentication (A81835).

Auction Notepad