Abby Wambach surpassed Mia Hamm as the all-time scorer for women's international soccer during the United States' matchup with South Korea on Thursday night. Wambach recorded four goals during the first half of the 5-0 victory for the U.S.
The 33-year-old forward now has 160 career goals in 207 career games, two more than Hamm's previous 275-game record that ended with her retirement in 2004.
Wambach scored three goals within the first 29 minutes to surpass Hamm's record of 158. During injury time, Wambach added an extra goal to reach her current career best.
Iran's Ali Daie holds the record for career goals in men's play with 109.
"I can't say how much I look up to Mia and how amazing the record she set was," said Wambach, who was doused by teammates with a bucket of water in celebration of her achievement.
Wambach gave credit to her teammates for setting up her scoring opportunities and added that the night is a memory she will treasure.
"It was a special night," said a soaking wet Wambach. "It was surreal when it was happening. I felt when I missed the breakaway (after the first goal), hey maybe it's not going to happen. But my teammates were relentless putting me in those positions, and it's obvious."
Hamm commented on Wambach's achievement after the game.
"I'm just so proud of her," Hamm said. "Just watching those four goals, that's what she is all about. She fights for the ball, she's courageous and she never gives up. Her strength and perseverance is what makes her so great and it's what defenders and opposing teams fear.
"From being her teammate early in her career, I know all she ever wanted to do was win, and she continues to do that. I'm just glad I got to share 158 with her. It was short, but it was fun."
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