On Tuesday, the U.S. women's national soccer team (USWNT) made a rainy return to Seattle's Lumen Field, where they faced Japan in a match that ended in a 1-0 loss. This game marked the first test of the stadium's newly installed grass, which was laid in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. Despite the persistent downpour, over 36,000 fans attended the match, showcasing their resilience in typical Seattle weather. Players praised the grass, with midfielder Claire Hutton stating it felt 'really nice' and team captain Lindsey Heaps noting that not noticing the surface was a good sign. The installation of the hybrid grass, which combines real grass with artificial fibers, is part of a broader renovation of Lumen Field, aimed at enhancing the stadium for the World Cup. The grass installation involved placing over a foot of sand on top of the existing turf before laying the sod. The renovation also included upgrades to seating and ticketing systems, although it temporarily displaced the Seattle Sounders and Seattle Reign, who will play several home games on the new surface before it is removed. Players highlighted the importance of maintaining the grass, which will receive more care due to its long-term use for the tournament.