Carson Pickett was born without her left forearm and hand. But from an early age, soccer became the place where she could simply be an athlete.

She grew up playing in South Carolina before starring at Florida State University. In 2016, Seattle Reign selected her fourth overall in the NWSL Draft, launching a professional career that would take her across the United States and even to Australia.

Then came the moment that made history.

On June 28, 2022, Carson started for the U.S. Women’s National Team against Colombia and played all 90 minutes. With that appearance, she became the first player with a limb difference to play for the USWNT. 🇺🇸

But she wasn’t there simply because of what her story represented.

Carson had already established herself as an elite defender, earning NWSL Best XI honors in both 2021 and 2022.

In 2024, another major chapter followed. After returning to Orlando Pride, she helped the club capture both the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship in an unforgettable season. 🏆

And her journey didn’t stop there.

Ahead of the 2026 season, Carson joined expansion side Denver Summit FC, signing through 2027 and bringing her experience to a team beginning a brand-new chapter in the NWSL.

Carson has never needed to hide her limb difference to prove she belongs.

Instead, she has spent her career showing that one physical difference does not have to determine the size of someone’s dreams.

And somewhere, a young athlete watching Carson play may be realizing something for the very first time:

There might be a place for me on that field, too. 💙

👉 Source: U.S. Soccer — Carson Pickett