Lindsey Heaps: ‘The Champions League is the baby you always want to win’

United States women’s national team captain Lindsey Horan reflected on her illustrative career and the prestige of European competition during an interview in Lyon this week, as she prepares for a professional transition to a new club in Denver this summer. Speaking from her long-time base in France, the midfielder emphasized how her tenure with Olympique Lyonnais has shaped her into a veteran leader, describing the UEFA Women’s Champions League as the ultimate prize and the "baby" every professional footballer dreams of winning. Her reflections come at a pivotal moment as she nears the end of her current chapter in Division 1 Féminine to help bolster the growing competitive landscape of women's soccer in her home country. Since inheriting the iconic No. 10 shirt from legendary playmaker Dzsenifer Marozsán this season, Horan has embraced a role of increased responsibility both on and off the pitch. She noted that her time in France has been a period of immense personal and professional growth, moving from a young, developing talent to an authoritative voice for both club and country. The move to Denver marks a significant homecoming for the Colorado native, who aims to bring the tactical sophistication and winning mentality she acquired in Europe back to the United States. Horan also addressed the evolving nature of the women's game, highlighting the necessity for greater global competition to ensure the sport's continued growth. While she acknowledged the dominance of established European powerhouses like Lyon, she stressed that the increasing level of parity in international football is essential for the next generation of players. Her move to Denver is seen not just as a personal career step, but as a strategic contribution to the American domestic scene, where she hopes to replicate the professional standards she experienced during her years winning trophies at the highest level of European football.