Lauren Russo and Matthew Russo have announced that they will not compete at the upcoming Team USA Trials, sharing their decision through personal messages on social media as the bowling community gathers in Las Vegas.
Lauren Russo explained that seeing athletes prepare for Team USA Trials brought mixed emotions, reflecting on her years representing the United States on the international stage. She highlighted how wearing “USA” and competing with teammates who became family shaped her both as an athlete and as a person.
After careful thought, she confirmed that she will not bowl the trials this year, citing a season of life that requires a different focus.
“After much consideration, I have made the difficult decision to not bowl Team USA Trials,” Lauren wrote. “My husband and I remain fully committed to our goal of growing our family… a journey that requires extra time, focus, and flexibility right now.”
Shortly after that, Matthew Russo shared a similar message, reflecting on how Team USA played a central role in both his bowling journey and personal life. He described the trials as his favorite event of the year, but confirmed that he will also step away this season to focus on starting a family with Lauren.
“A tough decision to be unable to compete at my favorite event of the entire year, Team USA Trials and instead focus on trying to start a family,” Matthew wrote. “Dedication doesn’t change and I have submitted my resume for the year. I will be back on the team when the timing is right.”
Lauren has been a member of Team USA for six seasons from 2020 to 2025. In 2025, she won two gold medals (Team and overall federations) at the IBF World Championships in Hong Kong and another gold at the IBF World Cup with the Team USA. She also earned her first PWBA Tour title in 2024 at the PWBA Southern Indiana Open.
Matthew has represented Team USA for eight seasons between 2017 and 2025. His career includes a bronze medal at the 2025 IBF World Cup, two PBA Tour titles, and recognition as the 2020 Team USA Trials champion and the 2021 PBA Rookie of the Year.
The 2026 Team USA Trials will be held at Gold Coast Bowling Center in Las Vegas and are open to USBC members aged 16 and older. Last year, Crystal Elliott and Ryan Barnes won the Taam USA Trials.
