Brazilian soccer legend Marta, often hailed as one of the greatest in women’s soccer history, is gearing up for her sixth Olympic appearance, having been chosen to represent Brazil at the upcoming Paris Games.
Marta announced in April to CNN Brasil her intention to retire from international soccer at the end of this year. However, she will have one last opportunity to secure an elusive Olympic gold medal for Brazil.
At 38, Marta has already claimed two Olympic silver medals in 2004 and 2008, both times falling short against the US women’s team in the finals.
Currently, Marta plays club soccer in the United States for the Orlando Pride, which is in a tight race for the top spot in the NWSL alongside the KC Current this season.
“She brings a wealth of experience and is undoubtedly the greatest athlete of all time,” said Brazil’s coach Arthur Elias, according to Reuters. “Her performance and dedication, especially after returning to play for her club fighting for the championship in the US, have been exemplary. Marta’s behavior, on and off the ball, sets a standard for all athletes.
“I face the challenge of optimizing our play to highlight her strengths. But she understands that victory comes from collective effort.”
Marta holds the record as Brazil’s top scorer, for both men and women, and has participated in six World Cups.
During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she made history by becoming the first player to score in five consecutive Olympic Games. In Paris, she will have the chance to further extend this remarkable record.
Brazil is set to kick off its campaign against Nigeria on July 25 in Bordeaux, followed by matches against Japan and Spain in Group C.