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USSF suspends Solo 30 days for ‘poor decision’

U.S. Soccer has suspended starting goalkeeper Hope Solo from the team for 30 days. The suspension is effective immediately. Solo will miss away matches against France on Feb. 8 and England on Feb. 13.

U.S. Soccer did not specify the reason for Solo’s suspension.

Solo was in the car when her husband, former NFL tight end Jerramy Stevens, was pulled over around 2 a.m. local time on Monday in Los Angeles and charged with driving under the influence.

“I accept and respect the Federation’s decision, and more importantly, I apologize for disappointing my teammates, coaches and the Federation who have always supported me,” Solo said in a statement. “I think it’s best for me to take a break, decompress from the stress of the last several months, and come back mentally and physically ready to positively contribute to the team.”

The U.S. is currently in training camp in Carson, Calif.

“During our current National Team camp, Hope made a poor decision that has resulted in a negative impact on U.S. Soccer and her teammates,” said U.S. women’s national team head coach Jill Ellis. “We feel at this time it is best for her to step away from the team.”

Monday’s incident occurred a week after Solo had two counts of domestic-violence assault dismissed, stemming from a June 21 incident involving her half-sister and nephew. Charges were dropped after the two alleged victims, who were the only witnesses, refused to cooperate. Authorities on the scene for the June 21 incident described Solo as “intoxicated and upset.” Solo was never suspended for the June 21, 2014 incident. U.S. Soccer stood by Solo, citing due process and conflicting reports.

U.S. Soccer says that Solo will be eligible for reinstatement after the 30-day ban, pending review and approval by the federation and Ellis. The Algarve Cup, a prestigious annual international tournament, begins on March 4. Last year the U.S. was embarrassed, finishing in seventh place. This year’s edition will serve as a tune-up for the Women’s World Cup, which starts on June 6 in Canada.

Solo’s club team, Seattle Reign FC, says Solo is scheduled to return to the team in early April and the club has “no plans to take any additional action at this time.” The team’s season-opener is at home on April 12.

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