‘Untold: Hope Solo vs. U.S. Soccer’ Netflix Review - Unveiling Hope Solo

In the realm of women's soccer, few names resonate as powerfully as Hope Solo. Regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of the sport, her legacy is filled with not only remarkable athletic prowess but also a fierce advocacy for equality. The documentary in focus takes a deep dive into Solo’s life, offering viewers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into her journey from a small-town girl with big dreams to an icon in women's sports.

The documentary opens with a poignant look at Solo's early years, shedding light on the deep influence her father had on her passion for soccer. A man she describes as her first coach, her father instilled in her a love for the game that would eventually become a lifelong commitment. From those early days, it was evident that Solo was no ordinary player. Her natural talent for soccer quickly drew attention, propelling her onto a national platform. The documentary captures the intensity of Solo's rise in the sport, leading to her coveted spot on the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team—a dream that, for many athletes, feels elusive.

What makes this documentary particularly engaging is the way it paints a multifaceted picture of Solo’s career. While she initially had no intention of becoming a goalkeeper, her coaches saw potential in her that she hadn’t fully realized herself. As the story unfolds, viewers are taken through some of her most memorable moments on the field. The 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup, for instance, marked a significant turning point in Solo's career. Her stellar performance was critical in helping the U.S. team reach the semi-finals. But the celebration was short-lived. In a controversial decision, coach Greg Ryan replaced Solo with Briana Scurry just before the semi-final match. The U.S. team subsequently lost the game, and Solo’s outspoken comments criticizing the decision landed her in hot water, sidelining her from the team temporarily.

The documentary does not shy away from this tumultuous period in Solo’s life, offering a balanced perspective by including voices from her former coaches, teammates, and Solo herself. This openness is one of the film’s strengths. It does not sugarcoat Solo’s actions or paint her as a flawless hero. Rather, it showcases her resilience and her ability to confront adversity head-on. Following the World Cup controversy, Solo made a triumphant return during the 2008 Olympics, leading the team to a gold medal victory. Her redemption arc is one of the more inspiring moments captured in the film.

Of course, no exploration of Hope Solo's career would be complete without discussing the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, arguably her crowning achievement. Solo was a key figure in the U.S. team’s triumphant victory, bringing home the trophy for the first time since 1991. Yet, Solo's outspokenness once again made headlines, as she called the Swedish team "cowards" after the U.S. lost to them in the Rio Olympics. This remark led to her suspension and eventual contract termination, a moment that remains controversial in the sports world.

Beyond her athletic accomplishments, the documentary also delves into Solo's fight for equal pay. Her legal battle against the U.S. Soccer Federation is a central theme, and the film highlights her role as a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports.

The honesty of the documentary sets it apart from other sports biopics. It does not attempt to polish Solo’s reputation or smooth over her rough edges. Instead, it presents her as she is: fierce, determined, and occasionally divisive. The interviews with former coaches such as Pia Sundhage, alongside her close friends and confidants, provide an objective lens through which Solo’s life and career are examined. This openness makes the film not just a celebration of her successes, but also a reflection on her struggles, making it a must-watch for any sports fan.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times