Shannon Boxx
Defensive Midfielder · San Diego Spirit / FC Gold Pride · USA
About Shannon Boxx
Shannon Boxx was the defensive backbone of a USWNT dynasty — a combative, intelligent midfielder who screened the back four across three World Cups and three Olympic tournaments, winning gold twice.
Shannon Boxx's story
California & Late Bloom
Shannon Boxx was born on 29 June 1977 in Fontana, California. She didn't make her senior USWNT debut until 2003 — aged 26 — but quickly established herself as indispensable in the defensive midfield role. Her ball-winning ability and positional discipline complemented the more creative players around her perfectly.
The Defensive Engine
Boxx was the unheralded hero of multiple USWNT successes. While forwards like Wambach and Lloyd took the glory, Boxx did the unseen work — winning second balls, breaking up opposition attacks, and recycling possession. She was one of the best defensive midfielders in the women's game for a decade.
Lupus Battle
In 2008, Boxx was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease. Rather than retiring, she managed her condition carefully and continued to compete at the highest level, winning Olympic gold in both 2008 and 2012 despite ongoing health challenges. She became an advocate for lupus awareness.
Retirement & Advocacy
Boxx retired in 2015 having earned 195 caps. Since retiring she has been vocal about living with lupus and encouraging others with the condition to remain active. She is married and has been involved in youth football coaching in California.
Did you know?
- Boxx was diagnosed with lupus in 2008 and went on to win two Olympic gold medals while managing the condition — she became a leading spokesperson for lupus awareness.
- She didn't earn her first USWNT cap until age 26, making her one of the oldest debutants to go on to earn 100+ caps for the programme.
- Boxx is married and has spoken about how her faith and family support were crucial in managing her lupus diagnosis alongside an elite football career.
See the full Shannon Boxx profile
Stats, photo gallery, what the press are saying and the daily challenge, free on DailyPlayer.
Open the full profile