Brazilian football icon Marta has agreed to extend her contract with the Orlando Pride.
The six-time FIFA World Player of the Year has committed to the defending National Women’s Soccer League champions until 2026.
At 38 years old, Marta has been an integral part of the Pride since 2017, showcasing her remarkable talent and fitness by leading the team to a 1-0 triumph over the Washington Spirit in last year’s league final.
This victory also marked Orlando’s first-ever trophy, as they secured the NWSL Shield.
In a recent statement, Marta expressed her enthusiasm about continuing with the team, saying, “This is a team where everybody works for each other, where everyone believes in each other, and I’m so excited to continue this journey with this club.”
She reflected on the past season’s accomplishments, highlighting that they overcame expectations together as a team, which made her thrilled to sign for another two years.
She also mentioned her personal milestone of reaching a decade with the Orlando Pride, considering it special as she has worn the No. 10 jersey for most of her career.
During the latest season, Marta found the back of the net 11 times, making it one of her most successful years with the Pride.
Notably, she scored the decisive goal in a 3-2 win against the Kansas City Current during the semifinals, showcasing her ability by navigating past two defenders before outsmarting the opposing goalkeeper.
The defense of Orlando held strong to secure the victory.
In total, she has netted 42 goals in 128 appearances for the Pride.
On the international front, Marta has represented Brazil in six FIFA World Cups and also competed at her sixth Olympics last summer where she earned a silver medal after losing to the United States in the final.
She previously announced that the last season would be her farewell tour with the national team.
Marta began her professional journey in Brazil at the age of 16 and has since played in Sweden and in earlier iterations of U.S. women’s leagues prior to the establishment of the NWSL.
Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, Marta became a free agent.
Haley Carter, who serves as Orlando’s sporting director and vice president of sporting operations, emphasized that re-signing Marta was a top priority for the club.
Carter noted, “The impact she has made on our team, our locker room, and our community is evident, of course through her incredible skill as a player, but even more so through her selfless and exemplary leadership style.”