Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY

Netflix, USWNT Report Emerges Before Movie Release

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Jan 14, 2026 3:53 PM ET

A Netflix film about the 1999 United States women's national soccer team is in the works. The 99’ers will be directed by Nicole Kassell and stars Emily Bader as American soccer legend Mia Hamm.

Nicknamed the 99'ers, Hamm and her teammates lifted the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup after defeating China on penalties at the Rose Bowl. Famously, defender Brandi Chastain removed her jersey after scoring the winning penalty.

Chastain's celebration is one of the most recognized images in women's sports history. The image appeared on the front page of national newspapers and on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

The 99’ers To Be Celebrated in Netflix Release

Shannon MacMillan and Mia Hamm are honored with members of the the 1999 US Women's World Cup team during a pregame ceremony before the match at Sports Ilustrated Stadium. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY SportsVincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The movie will be based on the book The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World by Jeré Longman. Katie Lovejoy and Dana Stevents have written the script.

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Hamm, Julie Foudy, Kristine Lilly and Michelle Akers are among the most famous female soccer players in USWNT history. The 1999 team was captained by Carla Overbeck, and Tony DiCicco served as head coach.

The film could be available for streaming on Netflix by the end of 2026.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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