Sophia Smith: USWNT 'Want to Uphold' Gold Medal Standard in Final at Paris Olympics

United States women's national team star Sophia Smith discussed the importance of maintaining a high standard for the squad ahead of a matchup with Brazil in the gold medal game during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"I grew up watching this team for however long I can remember," Smith said, according to ESPN's Sam Borden. "And this team has always had a standard of winning -- and winning on the biggest stage. I know, for us, we take so much pride in that and want to uphold that."

Despite appearing in six of the eight total gold medal games since the sport was introduced to the Olympics in 1996, the USWNT hasn't appeared in a final since 2012. The team also underperformed relative to expectations in the 2023 World Cup, falling in the Round of 16.

The U.S. team has now advanced to the gold medal game once again due to a strong front three that includes Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman. The trio has accounted for nine of Team USA's 11 goals throughout the Olympics.

The latest connection helped the United States defeat Germany in extra time and earn a spot in the gold medal match. Swanson delivered an exceptional pass to Smith in the 95th minute before she scored the first and only goal of the contest.

While the United States has already guaranteed a spot on the podium, Smith will look to keep the momentum going and help the team secure a gold medal for the first time in over a decade.

The match will kick off on Saturday at 11 a.m. ET.