Kansas City Current captain LaBonta earns first USWNT call-up

Midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta of the Kansas City Current has earned her first call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team for upcoming friendlies against China and Jamaica, making her the oldest player to potentially debut at 32 years old. LaBonta, a consistent NWSL performer and team captain, is joined by fellow first-time call-ups Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello and Seattle Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey. The 24-player roster, announced by coach Emma Hayes, features a mix of NWSL and European-based players and notable absences due to pregnancy and injury, including Mallory Swanson and Trinity Rodman. Hayes praised the newcomers for their consistent league performances and emphasized a merit-based selection approach regardless of age or previous national team experience. Returning to the squad are defender Naomi Girma, fresh off a successful season with Chelsea, and forward Catarina Macario. The U.S. team will face China on May 31 in Minnesota and Jamaica on June 3 in Missouri.