Biography:
Alexandra Popp is a renowned German footballer and Olympic gold medalist, admired for her remarkable achievements as a striker for VfL Wolfsburg and the Germany national team. Born on April 6, 1991, Popp embarked on her football journey at a young age, swiftly rising through the ranks to become one of the most prominent athletes in the field.
Popp initially started her career at the grassroots level, playing for FC Silschede in mixed-gender teams before reaching the age limit of 14. She then joined 1. FFC Recklinghausen, where she showcased her immense talent for three years. In 2008, Popp joined the Bundesliga side FCR 2001 Duisburg, despite receiving an offer from French champions Olympique Lyonnais at the time. Her decision to join Duisburg proved to be a pivotal moment in her career.
Making her Bundesliga debut in September 2008 against Herforder SV, Popp demonstrated her prowess by scoring her first two goals just three weeks later in an 8–0 victory over TSV Crailsheim. In her debut year at Duisburg, Popp achieved a remarkable feat by winning both the 2009 UEFA Women’s Cup and the 2009 German Cup, solidifying her position as a rising star in women’s football. Additionally, she was awarded the prestigious 2009 Fritz Walter medal in silver, recognizing her as one of the best female junior players of the year.
The following year, Popp continued to excel, winning the German Cup once again and finishing as the runner-up in the 2009–10 Bundesliga season. However, due to major injury concerns within the Duisburg team, Popp had to adapt and played most matches as a left back during the 2010–11 season, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the sport.
In the 2012–13 season, Popp made a significant move to VfL Wolfsburg along with her club teammate Luisa Wensing. In her inaugural season with Wolfsburg, Popp achieved the remarkable feat of winning the treble, triumphing in the Frauen-Bundesliga championship, the DFB-Pokal Frauen, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The following year, she played a vital role in defending the UEFA Women’s Champions League title, further solidifying her status as one of the best footballers of her generation.
One of Popp’s most unforgettable moments occurred during the Bundesliga championship showdown against the previously unbeaten 1. FFC Frankfurt in the 2013–14 season. With Frankfurt needing only a draw to secure the championship, Wolfsburg had to emerge victorious. In a thrilling encounter, Popp scored the winning goal in the 89th minute, propelling Wolfsburg to yet another Bundesliga triumph. Alongside this triumph, Wolfsburg clinched the DFB-Pokal title, displaying Popp’s tenacity and ability to perform under pressure.
On the international stage, Popp’s contributions to the German national team are equally impressive. Her journey began with a victory at the 2008 UEFA U-17 Women’s Championship, where she scored a crucial goal in the final. That same year, she achieved third place at the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. In February 2010, Popp made her senior national team debut in a friendly match against North Korea, showcasing her potential and securing her place among the country’s football elite. Just two weeks after her debut, Popp netted her first international goals during the 2010 Algarve Cup, contributing to Germany’s resounding 7–0 victory over Finland.
Popp’s excellence extended to the junior level as well, winning the prestigious 2010 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on home soil. In addition to claiming the title with the German team, she also emerged as the tournament’s best player and top goalscorer, solidifying her reputation as a remarkable talent in women’s football.
In recognition of her incredible contributions to the sport, Popp was named German Footballer of the Year twice, in 2014 and 2016. In February 2019, she was bestowed with the honor of being named the captain of the German national team, a testament to her leadership skills and immense impact on the field.
Alexandra Popp’s unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and numerous accomplishments have forever etched her name in the annals of women’s football. Her tireless pursuit of excellence and influential leadership have not only inspired a new generation of athletes but have also solidified her place in women’s history.
Awards:
– German Footballer of the Year: 2014, 2016