Mallory Swanson breaks down in tears as Team USA star scores gold-medal winning goal a year from World Cup heartbreak

TEAM USA’s Mallory Swanson couldn’t contain her emotions after helping her squad claim the gold against Brazil in the 2024 Paris Olympics soccer final.

Swanson scored the game-winner in the 57th minute – a year after her devastating injury before the 2023 World Cup.

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Getty

The U.S. stood on top of the Olympic podium for the first time in 12 years.

The Americans won thanks in large part to Swanson, who shot the ball into the bottom corner after receiving a pass from Korbin Albert, and Alyssa Naeher’s perfect goalkeeping.

Swanson’s game-winner comes after being carted off with an injury a few months before the 2023 World Cup.

She suffered a torn patella tendon injury and wouldn’t compete in the World Cup event in which Team USA lost in the Round of 16.

The final whistle blew and Team USA ‘s celebrations began at the Paris Olympics .

The U.S. players hugged each other as Trinity Rodman and Lindsey Horan, could be seen breaking down in tears.

Swanson was spotted hugging goalkeeper Naeher as both were emotional.

NBC commentator Jon Champion was on the call, saying that the Americans “are once again the gold standard!”

Fans, meanwhile, were happy for Swanson, who has battled through adversity and is now an Olympic champion.

“Swanson has been so clutch this tournament,” one wrote.

“I love Swanson so much… good for her,” a second wrote.

“Remember when Mal Swanson got injured and she didn’t have a knee and today she scores the winning gold medal goal. script writers thank you,” a third added.

Swanson scored her fourth goal of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

She helped extend the USWMT’s all-time gold medal count in soccer to five.

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Reuters

Brazil had an aggressive start to the game as Team USA received support from Naeher.

The American goaltender made four saves – and her last one in the first half was one for the ages.

Naeher made an impressive leaping stop on Gabi Portihlo with two minutes left in stoppage time.

She finished her day with a one-handed save on a header by Adriana in the fourth minute of the last stoppage time.

The USWMT’s title is the team’s first under new head coach Emma Hayes , who was hired in June.

Team USA received its first major international championship in five years.