Leading Off

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PHOTOGRAPH BY MADDIE MEYER FIFA/GETTY IMAGES

A Yen For Your Thoughts Japan midfielder Mizuho Sakaguchi contemplated the disastrous scenario unfolding—a 2--0 deficit in the fifth minute in the Women's World Cup final—as U.S. midfielder Carli Lloyd celebrated her second goal, on a scramble off a free kick. Lloyd was only getting warmed up: She completed her hat trick in the 16th minute on a stunning chip from midfield to lead the U.S. to a 5--2 win over the defending champs and a record third World Cup title (page 38).

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PHOTOGRAPH BY SIMON BRUTY FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Hope And Glory Goalkeeper Hope Solo stood under the Women's World Cup trophy, encircled by her teammates at Vancouver's BC Place Stadium after the U.S.'s first finals victory in 16 years. Voted the Golden Glove winner as the best keeper in the tournament, Solo played every minute of the U.S.'s seven matches and allowed just three goals while making 15 saves.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY ANTHONY CAUSI FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Treasure Island With the World Cup trophy in one hand, a key to New York City in the other and a champion's medal around her neck, midfielder Megan Rapinoe reveled at City Hall in Manhattan last Friday. Earlier, tens of thousands of flag-waving, USA!-chanting fans turned out to honor the USWNT with a ticker-tape parade in the Canyon of Heroes. The last time female athletes got such a reception was in 1984, in a celebration of all medal winners from the Los Angeles Summer Olympics.