Marta Vieira da Silva’s place in soccer history was settled long ago. She has been named the world’s leading women’s player by FIFA a record six times and scored 17 Women’s World Cup goals, more than any player, man or woman. FIFA even named its annual award for the best goal in women’s football after her. She won its inaugural edition herself.
At 40, Marta Is Still Making History
Time has done little to slow Marta’s ability to find another milestone. In July, the Orlando Pride captain curled a left-footed shot into the net against Kansas City for her 50th goal across all competitions with the club, becoming the first Pride player to reach the mark. Earlier in the season, another goal made her the NWSL’s all-time leader in converted penalty kicks.
© Getty ImagesMarta joined Orlando in 2017, beginning a chapter that would become one of the defining stretches of her career. Seven years later, she captained the Pride through the most successful season in club history, winning both the 2024 NWSL Shield and the franchise’s first NWSL Championship.
Brazil 2027 Brings Marta’s Story Full Circle
Her international career ended that same year with a third Olympic silver medal for Brazil. But another chapter of the story is approaching. In 2027, Brazil will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time, a tournament Marta has made clear she will watch rather than play.
© Getty ImagesA Legacy Bigger Than the Game
Marta spent more than two decades carrying Brazil onto the world’s biggest stages. In 2027, the biggest stage in women’s soccer will finally come home.
