Alexandra Popp is a German professional footballer celebrated for her leadership, aerial prowess, and prolific goal-scoring. As captain of VfL Wolfsburg and a long-time leader of the Germany national team, she stands among the most decorated and influential players in women’s football.
Early Life and Youth Career
Born on April 6, 1991, in Witten, Germany, Popp began her football journey with FC Silschede and later joined FCR 2001 Duisburg’s academy. Her early promise was evident as she rapidly progressed through youth levels, winning the UEFA U17 European Championship in 2008 and the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2010, where she was the tournament’s top scorer and best player.
Club Career
Popp made her senior debut with FCR 2001 Duisburg, winning the German Cup and the UEFA Women’s Cup (now Champions League) in her debut season. In 2012, she joined VfL Wolfsburg, where she became a club legend. With Wolfsburg, Popp has won seven Frauen-Bundesliga titles and a record 13 DFB-Pokal trophies, as well as the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her leadership, versatility, and goal-scoring have made her a central figure in Wolfsburg’s domestic and European dominance.
International Career
Popp debuted for Germany’s senior national team in 2010 and quickly became a mainstay. She played at four FIFA Women’s World Cups and one European Championship, winning gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics and bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Popp was joint-top scorer at UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, leading Germany to the final and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament. She finished her international career in October 2024 with 67 goals in 145 appearances, making her Germany’s third all-time top scorer and ninth most-capped player.
Popp served as Germany’s captain from 2019 until her retirement, earning widespread respect for her mentality, work ethic, and ability to deliver in big moments. She was named Germany’s Women’s Footballer of the Year three times and National Team Player of the Year twice.
Playing Style
Alexandra Popp is known for her commanding presence, powerful heading, and clinical finishing. She is versatile, able to play as a striker, attacking midfielder, or even in defense when needed. Her leadership and relentless drive have set her apart as a role model and standard-bearer for German football.
Career Achievements
-
Olympic Gold Medalist (2016) and Bronze Medalist (2024)
-
UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner
-
Seven-time Frauen-Bundesliga Champion
-
Thirteen-time DFB-Pokal Winner
-
UEFA U17 and U20 World Champion
-
UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 Runner-up, joint-top scorer
-
Germany’s third all-time top scorer (67 goals in 145 caps)
-
Three-time Germany Women’s Footballer of the Year
Personal Life
Popp is admired for her commitment, resilience, and leadership both on and off the pitch. She is a role model for aspiring footballers and has left a lasting legacy in German and European women’s football.
FAQs About Alexandra Popp
What position does Alexandra Popp play?
Primarily a striker, but also capable as an attacking midfielder or defender.
Which clubs has she played for?
FCR 2001 Duisburg and VfL Wolfsburg.
How old is Alexandra Popp?
Born April 6, 1991.
What are her main achievements?
Olympic gold and bronze medals, Champions League and Bundesliga titles, over 60 international goals.
When did she retire from international football?
October 2024.
Conclusion
Alexandra Popp’s journey from Witten’s youth fields to global stardom with Wolfsburg and Germany is a testament to her talent, leadership, and enduring influence. She remains an icon of the women’s game and a benchmark for future generations.
