Hope Solo has conquered the biggest stages in soccer—World Cups, Olympic gold medals, and legendary saves that defined a generation. But when the 44-year-old US women's national team icon reflects on her career, one experience stands out as truly special: The Soccer Tournament (TST).

"It's one of the best experiences of soccer I've ever been a part of," Solo said, her voice filled with genuine excitement.

For Solo, TST 2025 was more than just a competition. It marked her first time playing organized soccer since 2016, proving that the beautiful game never truly lets you go. "This tournament will bring people out of the gate that never thought they'd be pulled back in," she explained.

And pull her back in, it did. Solo's team, Solo FC, made an impressive run to the quarterfinals in 2025, highlighted by a dramatic penalty kick save that had fans on their feet. But for the Asheville, North Carolina resident, the tournament meant something deeper than just results on the field.

"I was so proud in the end because somehow, someway I got it done," Solo said. "My kids were really proud."

Living with her husband and two children in the Asheville area, Solo found that TST reignited her passion for the game in a way she hadn't expected. "Just being around the youth, just being around these players with so much drive and passion again," she said, her words carrying the weight of someone who's rediscovered their love for the sport.

Now, Solo is doubling down on her commitment to TST. For 2026, she's bringing not one, but two teams to the tournament: a women's squad and a mixed team. Each will have a shot at the tournament's massive $1 million cash prize. And Solo won't just be a player—she'll also serve as her club's general manager, overseeing both teams from the pitch to the front office.

"You can't turn it down because it truly does bring people together," she said.

Whether you're a goalkeeper dreaming of making that game-saving stop or a player who thought your competitive days were behind you, Solo's story is a powerful reminder: the soccer pitch always has a way of calling you back. TST 2026 kicks off from May 27 to June 1 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina—and if Hope Solo has anything to say about it, it's going to be unforgettable.