USWNT forward Sears inks new Louisville deal

Racing Louisville FC confirmed on Thursday that United States women's national team forward Emma Sears has signed a new contract extending through the 2028 NWSL season, securing her long-term future with the club.

Sears is currently tied for third in the NWSL Golden Boot race with 10 goals this season, highlighted by scoring a brace in a 3-1 victory over the North Carolina Courage and netting the lone goal in a 1-0 win against Angel City FC in recent matches.

These wins have positioned Louisville seventh in the NWSL standings with three games left to play, as the team aims to break its pattern of finishing ninth and missing the playoffs in all four previous seasons, with the top eight teams qualifying for the postseason.

In a statement, Sears expressed pride in continuing her career with Racing Louisville, emphasizing her motivation to grow as a player, compete for championships, and contribute to the club's success, while acknowledging the support of her teammates and the city.

Sears joined Louisville as a second-round pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft and quickly gained attention from USWNT head coach Emma Hayes, earning eight caps with one goal and two assists, including a debut where she became the first player since 2013 to record a goal and an assist in their first cap.

Hayes has been working with Sears on refining aspects of her game, such as improving her final pass, and Sears has noted personal growth in consistency and intentional play, feeling more natural and confident in recent performances.

Louisville has achieved a franchise record of 32 points this season and is focused on retaining its core squad, with additional contract extensions for players like midfielder Taylor Flint through 2028 and head coach Bev Yanez through 2026, underscoring the club's stability and ambitions.