**Carli Lloyd Preparing for Second Child as Family Grows**
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Carli Lloyd, the former professional footballer known for her notable contributions to women’s soccer, is eagerly anticipating the arrival of her second child. Lloyd and her husband, Brian Hollins, welcomed their first child, a daughter named Harper, in October 2024. Recently, they revealed exciting news that Harper will soon have a sibling, with their second child due in September 2026.
The 41-year-old athlete took to Instagram, expressing her joy over the family expansion. “Our family is growing, and we couldn’t be more grateful!” she shared, punctuating her message with a heart symbol. Since retiring from professional football in 2021, Lloyd has embraced motherhood while transitioning into a new role as a sports broadcaster, currently serving as a presenter for Fox Sports during the 2026 World Cup.
Lloyd’s journey to motherhood has not been without its challenges, as she has openly recounted her fertility struggles. In a heartfelt essay published in **Women’s Health**, she shared the emotional and physical difficulties she faced while trying to conceive. “I was very naive to think that we wouldn’t have any issues getting pregnant,” she admitted, reflecting on the unexpected hurdles she encountered.
After two unsuccessful rounds of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), Lloyd described the profound feelings of shame and embarrassment that accompanied her journey. However, as she progressed, her perspective shifted, enabling her to navigate the process with a newfound resilience. “As time went on, I realised that many women are going through similar struggles,” she noted, revealing that her third round of IVF led to a successful pregnancy.
Lloyd announced her first pregnancy in May 2024, sharing her joyous news with followers through social media. “It has been a rollercoaster of a journey to get to this point,” she wrote, expressing deep gratitude for the support of her husband, family, and friends throughout challenging times.
On October 18, 2024, Lloyd and Hollins celebrated the arrival of their daughter Harper Anne Hollins. The former soccer star conveyed her overwhelming emotions in an Instagram post, stating, “We just can’t get enough of this little peanut.” She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the medical team that assisted them, describing motherhood as “by far the hardest thing I have ever endured but the best thing I’ve ever done.”
As Lloyd embraces her role as a mother, she has shared numerous milestones with Harper, from celebrating her first birthday to festive outings such as meeting the Easter bunny. The bond between mother and daughter has become a cherished aspect of Lloyd’s life, with family moments frequently highlighted across her social media platforms.
The excitement of expanding their family grew further when, in April 2026, Lloyd shared the news of her second pregnancy. In another touching Instagram post, she showcased pictures of Harper wearing a “Big Sister” sweater alongside a sonogram. Her caption expressed heartfelt gratitude, underscoring the joy of welcoming another child into their lives.
As the couple prepares for the arrival of their second baby, Lloyd noted the difference between her pregnancies. Speaking to **PEOPLE** in June 2026, she remarked on the challenges of being pregnant while caring for a toddler, describing it as “very exhausting.” Nonetheless, her optimism remained clear: “But worth every bit of it. We’re really excited!”
With her extensive experience in the sports world and her current broadcasting role during the World Cup, Lloyd balances her professional commitments while navigating the complexities of motherhood. Through her openness regarding her fertility challenges and her journey into parenthood, she has become a source of inspiration for many, showcasing resilience in both her personal and professional life.
As Carli Lloyd looks forward to welcoming her second child, she continues to celebrate the joy and love of family, embodying the values she hopes to instil in her children. With a growing family and an ongoing involvement in sports, Lloyd appears poised to embrace this new chapter with enthusiasm and grace.