Pernille Harder stands among the greatest names in women’s football, renowned for her technical brilliance, versatility, and leadership. From her early days in Denmark to becoming a global superstar and LGBTQ+ advocate, Harder’s journey is a blueprint for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Early Life and Background
Born on November 15, 1992, in Ikast, Denmark, Pernille Mosegaard Harder was drawn to football from a young age. Her early years were spent honing her skills at Tulstrup-Faurholt and Ikast, where her talent quickly became evident. By 15, she was already playing senior football with Team Viborg, marking the start of a remarkable professional journey.
Club Career: From Denmark to Europe’s Elite
Early Steps in Denmark and Sweden
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Team Viborg & Skovbakken: Harder’s professional debut came with Team Viborg, followed by a move to Skovbakken, where she established herself as a rising Danish star.
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Linköpings FC (Sweden): In 2012, Harder joined Linköpings FC in Sweden’s Damallsvenskan. She led the team to a league title in 2016 and finished as the league’s top scorer, earning the Damallsvenskan Forward of the Year award.
European Glory with Wolfsburg and Chelsea
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VfL Wolfsburg (Germany): Harder’s next chapter was with Wolfsburg, where she won multiple Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles and reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
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Chelsea (England): In 2020, Harder became the world’s most expensive female footballer after her transfer to Chelsea. She helped the club dominate the Women’s Super League and reach the Champions League final.
Bayern Munich: The Latest Challenge
In 2023, Harder signed with Bayern Munich, immediately impacting the team with her leadership and goal-scoring prowess. In her first two seasons, she helped Bayern secure Bundesliga titles, further cementing her legacy as one of the game’s elite.
International Career: Denmark’s Record-Breaking Leader
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Debut at 16: Harder made her senior international debut in 2009, scoring a hat-trick in her first match.
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Captain and All-Time Top Scorer: Appointed captain in 2016, she led Denmark to the UEFA Women’s Euro 2017 final, scoring in the decisive match. In 2021, she became Denmark’s all-time leading scorer.
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Major Tournaments: Harder has starred in multiple European Championships and World Cups, including Denmark’s historic run to the knockout stages at the 2023 World Cup.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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UEFA Women’s Player of the Year: 2018, 2020 (first player to win twice)
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Bundesliga, Damallsvenskan, and Women’s Super League champion
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Denmark’s all-time leading scorer (over 77 goals)
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Led Denmark to the Euro 2017 final and 2023 World Cup knockout stage
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Named to numerous UEFA and FIFA Teams of the Year
Harder’s playing style blends technical brilliance, vision, and versatility. She excels as an attacking midfielder, forward, or winger, known for her creativity, finishing, and relentless work ethic.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
Pernille Harder is one of the highest-paid female footballers globally, with an estimated net worth of around $5 million. Her annual salary at Bayern Munich is reported to be approximately £350,000. She has major endorsement deals with Nike, Puma, and Adidas, and is a highly marketable athlete with a strong social media presence.
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Estimated Net Worth: $5 million
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Annual Salary: ~£350,000 at Bayern Munich
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Endorsements: Nike, Puma, Adidas
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Charity Work: Active with Common Goal, pledging 1% of her salary to social causes, and a vocal advocate for equality and LGBTQ+ rights
Personal Life
Harder is known for her advocacy off the pitch, especially for LGBTQ+ rights alongside her partner, fellow footballer Magdalena Eriksson. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and is admired for her professionalism, humility, and leadership.
FAQs About Pernille Harder
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What position does Pernille Harder play?
She plays as an attacking midfielder, forward, or winger, known for her versatility and creativity. -
What are Pernille Harder’s biggest achievements?
She is a two-time UEFA Women’s Player of the Year, Denmark’s all-time top scorer, and a champion in multiple European leagues. -
How much does Pernille Harder earn?
Her annual salary is around £350,000, with a net worth estimated at $5 million, including endorsements. -
Who is Pernille Harder’s partner?
Her partner is Swedish footballer Magdalena Eriksson, with whom she advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. -
What is Pernille Harder known for off the field?
She is recognized for her charity work, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and commitment to equality in sport.
Conclusion
Pernille Harder’s journey from Ikast to the pinnacle of world football is a testament to talent, resilience, and leadership. As a record-breaking scorer, two-time UEFA Player of the Year, and passionate advocate for equality, she continues to inspire fans and future generations both on and off the pitch.
