Christen Press, an American former professional soccer player, entrepreneur, and sports journalist, has left a significant mark on the sport through her various club and international roles. Born on December 29, 1988, in Los Angeles, California, Press established herself as a high-scoring forward during her collegiate career at Stanford Cardinal from 2007 to 2010, where she holds the school's all-time scoring record with 71 goals. Following her time at Stanford, she was selected fourth overall by the Washington Freedom in the 2011 WPS Draft, earning the title of WPS Rookie of the Year.
In a complex three-team NWSL trade announced on June 18, 2018, the rights to Press were moved from the Houston Dash to the Chicago Red Stars, and subsequently to the Utah Royals FC. This transaction involved several players and draft picks, including defender Sam Johnson, who was sent to Utah alongside the rights to Press in exchange for defender Brooke Elby and multiple draft picks. According to a report from June 18, 2018, by the Chicago Red Stars, Press had previously spent time in Europe with Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC in Sweden. During her tenure with the Chicago Red Stars, Press recorded 35 career NWSL regular season goals in 60 games, a total that ranked fourth all-time in NWSL history at that time.
Press's professional journey included playing for several prominent clubs. According to Wikipedia, her club domestic league appearances and goals include stints with magicJack in 2011, Tyresö FF in 2013–2014, and Manchester United from 2020 to 2021. She also played for Angel City FC of the NWSL through 2025. On the international stage, Press made her debut for the United States national team during an international friendly against Scotland on February 9, 2013. By the end of her international career, she had made 155 appearances for her country and scored 64 goals, a figure that placed her ninth all-time in USWNT history. She was also a contributor to the United States' championship victories at the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Beyond her play on the pitch, Press has engaged in diverse professional ventures. In 2019, she co-founded the gender-neutral lifestyle brand RE—INC alongside athletes Megan Rapinoe, Tobin Heath, and Meghan Klingenberg. She also serves as a co-host for the podcast The RE—CAP Show with Tobin Heath. Additionally, as of the Wikipedia entry, Press has been a Global Ambassador and board member of the adolescent health organization Grassroot Soccer. Her athletic history is marked by significant achievements, such as being the first American to earn the Golden Boot award in the history of the Swedish League after scoring 23 goals for Tyresö FF in 2013.
In terms of historical performance in the NWSL, Press is noted for her scoring ability. As of a May 17, 2026, report from the Utah Royals, Press is recorded as having nine goals in Utah Royals FC history, a mark that was matched by player Mina Tanaka.
What this means for Roy
For the residents of Roy, the legacy of professional athletes like Christen Press remains a part of the regional sports history. Her movement through the NWSL, specifically her acquisition by the Utah Royals FC in 2018, highlights the interconnected nature of professional sports leagues and the high-profile players who have contributed to the growth of soccer in the region.
