The USA women's football team goalkeeper Hope Solo has received a six-month suspension for comments made after the team's Olympics defeat to Sweden.

Solo, who has 202 caps, has also had her contract terminated by US Soccer.

"I think we played a bunch of cowards," Solo stated following the loss, adding, "the best team did not win."

In response to the punishment, Solo tweeted she would now take some time away from the game and expressed her disappointment.

Solo will next be available for national team duty in February 2017 and will be available to play for club side Seattle Reign in the meantime.