Crystal Dunn Says Being a Mom Helped Her Become a "Better Athlete"

Crystal Dunn is a star on the soccer field, but at home, she's settling into life as a mom. The athlete welcomed her first child, a baby boy named Marcel Jean Soubrier, in 2022 with husband Pierre Soubrier, and her life has changed for the better since then. "I feel like I'm a better athlete now, being a mom, because I have learned to really appreciate every little moment," she told Just Women's Sports in July 2023. "Every pass, every tackle, just every moment I'm on the field I think I look at differently."

While Dunn told the outlet that she thinks she'll be best remembered for her ability to play multiple positions, it's seeing her family in the stands that will forever be embedded in her own memory. "Being able to see my son in the stands has been the biggest joy of it all, just knowing that you know I'm playing for something so much bigger than just me winning games," Dunn shared. "I'm playing to be seen through his eyes. He doesn't care if I miss a pass or lose a game. And I think that that's really great. It gives me that comfort, knowing that I'm just out there doing the best I can and that's really all that matters."

Learn more about Dunn's son ahead.

Marcel Jean Soubrier
Getty | Brad Smith/ISI Photos

Marcel Jean Soubrier

Dunn announced her pregnancy on Instagram in November 2021, writing, "The biggest blessing of them all: We are so excited and happy to be adding a member to our family in 2022!"

Throughout her pregnancy, the soccer star shared sweet photos of herself embracing her baby bump and sharing her excitement for the next chapter in her life. In January 2022, she posted a series of beach maternity pictures with her husband, captioning them: "We can't wait to meet you little one."

In May 2022, Dunn revealed that her baby boy had finally arrived. "Welcome to the world," she wrote. "✨Marcel Jean Soubrier ✨ I can't believe i'm somebody's Mama!"

A year after welcoming her son, Dunn celebrated her first Mother's Day and took time to reflect in an emotional social media post. "Marcel," she wrote. "I am truly blessed to have you in my life. You have changed me and made me a better person in ways i never knew was possible. Thank you for all the laughs and your amazing smile. I am so proud to be your Mama. I love you Kid."

More Photos of Crystal Dunn's Son