Brazilian soccer legend Marta is expected to kick off the National Women’s Soccer League home opener Saturday against the Washington Spirit. Marta is the latest big name to join the Orlando Pride.
The five-time consecutive FIFA World Player of the Year touched down in Orlando on Thursday from Sweden. She is widely viewed as the greatest women’s soccer player of all time.
“It’s really got the potential to spark something big especially in central Florida for girls and for women’s soccer,” said Central Florida-based sports critic David Baumann. He predicts her presence will boost Orlando tourism, soccer game attendance, and attract other international athletes.
Marta signed a two-year contract with the Pride.