In early 2025, Netflix announced plans to develop a feature film centered on the iconic 1999 United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT), and now, production is officially underway.
The 1999 USWNT remains one of the most legendary teams in sports history. Long before stars like Alex Morgan, Tobin Heath and Christen Press defined a new generation, the foundation was built by trailblazers such as Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain and Michelle Akers.
That summer, the team captured the nation’s attention by winning the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final in a dramatic penalty shootout against China, in front of more than 90,000 fans on home soil. The victory was more than just a championship; it marked a turning point for women’s sports in the U.S., helping to elevate women’s soccer into the mainstream and setting a new standard of excellence that still defines the program today.
The defining image of that tournament came when Chastain buried the winning penalty kick and celebrated by ripping off her jersey and sliding to her knees in a sports bra. While the moment sparked widespread debate—overshadowing the victory in some headlines—it ultimately amplified attention on the team and the magnitude of what they had achieved.
The upcoming film is based on Jeré Longman’s book, “The Girls of Summer: The US Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World,” which chronicles the team’s journey and lasting impact. The cast features a strong lineup, including Emily Bader and Zoey Deutch, signaling a serious investment in bringing this story to life.
For women’s sports, especially soccer, this film represents a meaningful opportunity to honor the pioneers who reshaped the game. Their legacy extends far beyond a single tournament, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of athletes who followed.
Still, there is reason for cautious optimism. Soccer has historically been difficult to portray convincingly on screen. The fluidity of the game, constant movement and technical skill required can be challenging to replicate, particularly when actors lack high-level playing experience. Even popular series like “Ted Lasso” have relied heavily on editing to make the on-field action feel authentic.
Even so, the potential of this project is undeniable. If executed well, it could not only celebrate one of the most important teams in sports history but also set a new benchmark for how soccer is depicted on screen.
There is no set release date yet for the film, but it is rumoured to be released in 2027 around the time of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.