Women’s leagues in the United States have historically been characterized by short-lived sports. What does the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), which started in 2013, do differently?
There are a lot of sponsors on board, the league and the players are heavily marketed. It’s not a niche, but goes far beyond sports. The stadiums are full, Denver recently set a record. The jerseys are popular. All of this brings in good money for the clubs and the league.
Is marketing the biggest difference compared to the women’s Bundesliga?
It’s a huge difference. As a player, you also notice this in everyday life: in the USA it is explicitly desired that you use social media as a professional. In Germany the focus is clearly on sport. I think it works both ways. I really value social media to keep in touch with fans.
The Americans and Brazilians sometimes record TikTok videos in their dressing rooms before international matches. I wouldn’t do that, but it’s different there.
You resigned from the DFB team in 2025. Is there still a chance of a comeback?
After a few games since my return to Frankfurt, there were already one or two people saying that I had to be brought back. Christian Wück has very good players in my position. If there are no failures and I am therefore needed, my decision is 100 percent.
How do you see the national team developing under Wück?
It’s fun to watch the girls. The team is very young, very changed. Players like Janina Minge, Sjoeke Nüsken and Elisa Senß have taken on a larger role. It’s nice to be excited as a fan, but also to be critical sometimes. I can cheer in front of the TV – or be the coach who always knows better (laughs).
