Born: 1993 (Reading, England)
Biography:
Francesca Fran Kirby, born on June 29, 1993, is an English professional footballer renowned for her exceptional skills as an attacking midfielder. She represents Chelsea Football Club as well as the England national team. Born and raised in Reading, Kirby’s talent and determination have propelled her to the top of women’s football, making her a true icon in the sport.
Kirby’s journey in football began at a young age when she observed her brother playing the sport. Inspired by his passion, she immersed herself in the game, playing every chance she got – whether it was at school, on the street, or in the front garden. Her mother, Denise, supported her dreams, believing in her potential to reach great heights. In fact, she once wrote in a birthday card that Kirby would someday play in a World Cup.
Tragedy struck when Kirby was only 14 years old, as her mother passed away suddenly due to a brain haemorrhage. This devastating loss had a profound impact on Kirby’s life, and two years later, she found herself in the grip of deep depression. However, she found solace and hope on the football field, where her undisputed talent shone brightly.
Kirby attended Caversham Park Primary School and later Chiltern Edge, Sonning Common, where she fearlessly competed against boys. Her remarkable abilities did not go unnoticed, and at the age of seven, she joined Reading’s academy. Kirby’s skills developed rapidly, and by the time she was 16, she made her senior debut for Reading.
In 2012, Kirby faced a challenging period in her life that led her to step away from football temporarily. The grief from her mother’s passing had taken its toll, causing her to experience depression. However, Kirby’s passion for the game could not be extinguished, and she made a triumphant return to Reading in 2012. It was during this time that she displayed her extraordinary goal-scoring skills, becoming the leading scorer in the FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division during the 2012-2013 season. With an astounding 32 goals in 21 appearances, Kirby quickly became a force to be reckoned with.
Kirby’s undeniable talent caught the attention of Chelsea Football Club, and she joined the club in July 2015. Since then, she has been instrumental in their success, contributing significantly to numerous victories and championships. Moreover, Kirby has achieved notable milestones throughout her career, including becoming Chelsea’s all-time top scorer as of December 2020. Her consistency, agility, and brilliance on the field have made her an invaluable asset to her team.
On the international stage, Kirby has proudly represented England in several prestigious tournaments. In August 2014, she received her first senior cap and went on to compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015 and 2019, as well as the UEFA Women’s Euro 2017. Kirby’s performances in these tournaments have demonstrated her exceptional abilities and have solidified her place as one of England’s finest players.
Kirby’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed, with numerous awards and accolades showered upon her. In April 2018, she was honored with both the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year and the Football Writers’ Women’s Footballer of the Year awards. These prestigious recognitions spoke to her immense talent and the impact she has had on the game. Furthermore, Kirby’s contributions earned her a place on the shortlist for the Ballon d’Or in 2021, where she ranked 10th. The Guardian’s The 100 Best Female Footballers in the World also acknowledged her greatness, placing her 7th in their esteemed rankings.
Fran Kirby’s journey is not merely a testament to her exceptional football skills, but also a story of resilience, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. Her determination to overcome personal challenges, her unwavering passion for the game, and her remarkable performances have cemented her place in women’s football history. Kirby’s influence extends beyond the field, inspiring young girls worldwide to pursue their dreams and break barriers. As she continues to make her mark in the world of football, Fran Kirby leaves an indelible legacy as a true icon of the game.
Awards:
– PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year (2018)
– Football Writers’ Women’s Footballer of the Year (2018)