Sydney Leroux

A rising and controversial star, Leroux may be the player most primed for a breakout performance at the London Games. Born in Surrey, British Columbia, Leroux was eligible to play for Canada or the U.S. She played at the youth level for both countries before opting for the U.S., creating a fervor among Canadian fans. That controversy was front and center when CONCACAF qualifying was held in Vancouver earlier this year. Leroux was constantly booed but still turned in a record-tying performance by scoring five goals in a 13-0 win over Guatemala in the group stage. She became the sixth member of the U.S. to score that many times in a match, joining current teammates Amy Rodriguez and Abby Wambach. Leroux is one of the most exciting, young players in the world and is starting to play a much larger role on the international level. Her dribbling and playmaking ability combined with her knack to find the back of the net make her another dangerous offensive option for a U.S. team boasting an array of talent.