Tierna Davidson's Career

USWNT defender Tierna Davidson, a World Cup champion, bids farewell to the city of Chicago as she joins reigning champions Gotham FC in a multi-year deal extending through 2026.

Leaving Chicago marks the end of a chapter where Davidson played alongside notable talents like Julie Ertz, Yuki Nagasato, and Sam Kerr. While the team reached multiple championship games, off-field turmoil and dysfunction came to light, with coach Rory Dames banned, and owner Arnim Whisler selling the club.

As Davidson enters free agency after Chicago’s challenging 2023 season, Gotham emerges as her new destination, presenting an opportunity for growth and a fresh environment. The club, after winning their first championship, has been actively recruiting top players, including Crystal Dunn, Emily Sonnett, and Rose Lavelle.

Davidson is impressed by Gotham’s coaching staff and their thorough preparation, evident in video analysis and stats presented during early conversations. The team’s versatile playstyle, solid defense, and quick transitions appeal to Davidson, who sees herself contributing as a center-back, a position recently vacated by retiring captain Ali Krieger.

Joining USWNT teammates like Dunn and Lynn Williams at Gotham, Davidson expresses excitement about the team’s style under head coach Juan Carlos Amorós. She acknowledges the positive experiences shared by national team colleagues who played for Gotham, creating a sense of ease and positivity around the club.

Off the field, Davidson looks forward to finding peace in New Jersey while experiencing the dynamic city life of New York. As she embarks on this new journey, Davidson aims to regain joy and confidence in her game, focusing on both personal and professional growth with Gotham FC.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Just Women’s Sports}