Alexandra Popp, a cornerstone of German women's football, has concluded her illustrious international career. Playing her final match against Australia, Popp was substituted after 15 minutes in a pre-arranged farewell at Duisburg's MSV Arena, where her journey began 14 years ago. Despite the brevity of her last appearance, Popp's contributions—145 caps and 67 goals—were celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
Beyond her on-field achievements, Popp is fervently advocating for the professionalization of women's football in Germany. She calls upon the next generation to exert pressure and voice their demands for better infrastructure and a fully professional Bundesliga. Popp underscores that many players are unable to focus solely on football, a situation she deems necessary to change for the sport's growth.
As she passes the captaincy to Giulia Gwinn, Popp remains optimistic about the future under new national coach Christian Wück, despite a dip in performance against Australia. Her legacy is not only marked by her skill and leadership but also by her commitment to advancing women's football.
Popp will continue her club career with VfL Wolfsburg until at least the summer, where she will receive a fitting farewell. Her departure leaves a significant void, yet her influence will undoubtedly inspire future generations to strive for excellence both on and off the pitch. Her advocacy for change, paired with her remarkable career, cements her status as a true legend of the game.
