Lindsey Heaps (born Lindsey Michelle Horan) is an American professional footballer celebrated for her technical skill, vision, and leadership. As a midfielder for Olympique Lyonnais and captain of the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), she has become one of the most decorated and influential players in the modern game.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 26, 1994, in Golden, Colorado, Heaps grew up near Denver and played club soccer with Colorado Rush, bypassing high school soccer. She stood out from a young age, leading the U-17 US national team in scoring and earning Parade Magazine High School All-American honors despite not playing school soccer. Heaps made headlines as the first American woman to skip college and go straight to the professional ranks in Europe.
Club Career
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Paris Saint-Germain (2012–2016):
At 18, Heaps signed with PSG, scoring 46 goals in 58 appearances and helping the club reach the UEFA Women’s Champions League final. She was a three-time French league runner-up and a Coupe de France finalist. -
Portland Thorns FC (2016–2022):
Returning to the US, Heaps became a central figure for the Thorns, winning the NWSL Championship in 2017 (scoring the title-winning goal and earning Championship MVP), the NWSL Shield, Challenge Cup, and International Champions Cup. She was named NWSL MVP in 2018 and made the league’s Best XI. -
Lyon (2022–present):
Initially joining Lyon on loan in 2022, Heaps quickly made her mark, winning two Division 1 Féminine titles, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She signed permanently in June 2023, and as of November 2024, has scored 22 goals in 41 league appearances for Lyon, including two hat-tricks against AS Saint-Étienne.
International Career
Heaps has been a mainstay for the USWNT since 2013, earning 165 caps and scoring 37 goals as of April 2025. She was a key part of the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning squad, won bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and captained the team to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She has also been the leading scorer at youth levels and is now the team’s captain, known for her leadership and clutch performances in major tournaments.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Versatility: Effective as a forward, attacking midfielder, or central midfielder.
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Technical Quality: Renowned for her vision, passing, and ability to dictate play.
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Leadership: Captains both club and country, setting standards on and off the pitch.
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Big-Game Impact: Frequently delivers in decisive matches, scoring crucial goals and providing assists.
Career Stats (as of April 2025)
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Date of Birth: May 26, 1994
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Age: 30
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Height: 1.75 m
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Positions: Midfielder, Forward, Attacking Midfielder
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Current Club: Olympique Lyonnais (No. 26)
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Lyon Appearances: 41 (22 goals)
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PSG Appearances: 58 (46 goals)
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Portland Thorns Appearances: 87 (25 goals)
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USWNT Caps: 165 (37 goals)
Achievements and Honors
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With Lyon:
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2× Division 1 Féminine Champion
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner
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Coupe de France Winner
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With Portland Thorns:
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NWSL Championship Winner
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NWSL Shield, Challenge Cup, and International Champions Cup Winner
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NWSL MVP (2018)
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With PSG:
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Finalist
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Multiple league and cup runner-up finishes
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With USWNT:
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FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion (2019)
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Olympic Gold Medalist (2024), Bronze Medalist (2020)
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USWNT Captain
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Individual:
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NWSL MVP and Best XI
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Multiple Player of the Month and Championship MVP awards
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lindsey Heaps
How old is Lindsey Heaps?
She is 30 years old, born on May 26, 1994.
What position does Lindsey Heaps play?
She is a versatile midfielder, also capable as a forward or attacking midfielder.
What are Lindsey Heaps’s major achievements?
She is an Olympic gold medalist, World Cup winner, Champions League winner, and NWSL MVP.
What makes Lindsey Heaps stand out?
Her vision, technical skill, leadership, and ability to deliver in big moments for both club and country.
Conclusion
Lindsey Heaps’s journey from Colorado to the pinnacle of world football is a testament to her talent, ambition, and leadership. As a star for Lyon and the USWNT, she continues to set standards in the women’s game and inspire the next generation.
