Eugénie Le Sommer is one of the most decorated and prolific footballers in the history of women’s football. Renowned for her clinical finishing, versatility, and leadership, she is the all-time top scorer for both Olympique Lyonnais and the French national team, and remains a driving force for club and country well into her mid-thirties.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 18, 1989, in Grasse, France, Le Sommer grew up in a football-loving family as one of seven children. Her mother played football in her youth, and Eugénie began playing at age five, often competing in boys’ teams. She balanced football and judo until age 12, eventually choosing to focus solely on football. Her early promise saw her join FC Lorient’s girls’ team and later attend the prestigious Clairefontaine academy, where she met her idol, Zinedine Zidane.
Club Career
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Stade Briochin (2007–2010):
Le Sommer made her senior debut at Stade Briochin, scoring 33 goals in 65 appearances and quickly establishing herself as one of France’s top young talents. -
Olympique Lyonnais (2010–present):
Joining Lyon in 2010, Le Sommer has become a club legend, scoring 195 goals in 245 league appearances as of March 2024. She has helped Lyon win 13 Division 1 Féminine titles and a record eight UEFA Women’s Champions League trophies. Her versatility allows her to play as a forward, attacking midfielder, or winger, and she is known for her movement, intelligence, and goal-scoring instincts. -
OL Reign (loan, 2021):
Le Sommer spent a season on loan in the NWSL with OL Reign, scoring 8 goals in 18 matches and adapting seamlessly to the American league.
International Career
Le Sommer debuted for France’s senior team in 2009 and has since become the country’s all-time leading scorer, with 94 goals in 200 appearances as of April 2025. She has played in multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups, UEFA Women’s Euros, and Olympic Games, and reached the milestone of 200 caps in 2024, becoming the first French player-male or female-to do so. Her leadership, experience, and charisma make her a vital presence in the national squad, where she now often guides younger teammates and serves as a role model.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Positions: Forward, attacking midfielder, winger, second striker
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Key Attributes:
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Clinical finishing and movement in the box
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Versatility across attacking roles
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Intelligence, vision, and ability to link play
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Leadership and experience, especially in high-pressure matches
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Consistency and longevity at the highest level
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Career Stats (as of May 2025)
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 18, 1989 |
| Age | 35 |
| Height | 1.61 m |
| Position | Forward |
| Current Club | Olympique Lyonnais (No. 9) |
| Lyon Appearances | 245 (195 goals) |
| OL Reign | 18 (8 goals, loan) |
| France Caps | 200 |
| France Goals | 94 |
2024/25 Season (as of May 2025):
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13 matches, 4 goals, 2 assists in Division 1 Féminine
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23 matches, 6 goals, 2 assists across all competitions
Achievements and Honors
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With Lyon:
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13× Division 1 Féminine Champion
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8× UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner
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Multiple Coupe de France Féminine titles
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With France:
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All-time leading scorer (94 goals)
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First French player to reach 200 caps
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Key player in World Cups, Euros, and Olympics
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Individual:
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UNFP Female Player of the Year
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Division 1 Féminine top scorer
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Included in numerous Best XI and Team of the Season selections
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Frequently Asked Questions About Eugénie Le Sommer
How old is Eugénie Le Sommer?
She is 35 years old, born on May 18, 1989.
What position does Eugénie Le Sommer play?
She is a forward but is also effective as an attacking midfielder or winger.
What are Eugénie Le Sommer’s major achievements?
She is the all-time top scorer for France and Lyon, a 13-time French league champion, and an 8-time Champions League winner.
What makes Eugénie Le Sommer stand out?
Her goal-scoring consistency, versatility, leadership, and longevity at the top level of women’s football.
Conclusion
Eugénie Le Sommer’s journey from youth football in Brittany to the pinnacle of European and international football is a testament to her talent, work ethic, and passion for the game. As Lyon and France’s all-time leading scorer, she continues to inspire teammates and fans, cementing her legacy as one of the greats of women’s football.
