Jovana Damnjanović has become a standout figure in European women’s football, dazzling fans with her goal-scoring prowess and resilience. From her early days in Belgrade to leading the line for Bayern Munich and Serbia, Damnjanović’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and talent.
Early Life and Family Roots
Born on November 24, 1994, in Belgrade, FR Yugoslavia, Jovana Damnjanović grew up in a football-loving family. Her cousin, Jelena Čanković, is also a professional footballer, hinting at a strong sporting lineage. Jovana’s earliest football memories trace back to her youth club, FC Perspektiva, before she moved on to play for ŽFK Crvena zvezda, one of Serbia’s premier women’s teams.
Club Career: From Serbia to Bundesliga Stardom
ŽFK Crvena zvezda & Early Success
Damnjanović’s senior career began at ŽFK Crvena zvezda, where she helped the team secure second place in the Serbian Super League and reach the Serbian Cup final in 2012.
VfL Wolfsburg: Champions League Triumph
In 2013, she made a significant move to Germany, signing with VfL Wolfsburg. Her debut in the Bundesliga came against Bayern Munich, and she quickly made history by becoming the first Serbian woman to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League in the 2013–14 season. She also won the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal with Wolfsburg.
SC Sand & Rise in Germany
Seeking more playing time, Damnjanović transferred to SC Sand in 2015, where she continued to develop her skills and reputation as a reliable forward.
Bayern Munich: Key Player and Fan Favorite
In 2017, she joined Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s elite clubs. Over seven years, Damnjanović has become a linchpin for the team, scoring 55 goals in 139 appearances across all competitions as of May 2024. She played a pivotal role in Bayern’s Frauen-Bundesliga title wins in 2021, 2023, and 2024, and has appeared in two DFB Cup finals. Her memorable goals, including a stunning strike from the halfway line in 2024, have cemented her status as a fan favorite.
In August 2024, she extended her contract with Bayern Munich until June 2027, underscoring her importance to the club and her commitment to further success.
International Career: Leading Serbia’s Attack
Damnjanović debuted for the Serbian national team at just 15, a clear sign of her prodigious talent. She shone in youth tournaments, becoming the top scorer in the 2013 UEFA U-19 Championship qualifiers with 14 goals. Since then, she has earned over 50 caps and scored 18 goals for Serbia, making her one of the country’s most influential players.
Special Achievements and Honors
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner (2013–14, VfL Wolfsburg)
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Bundesliga Champion (2013–14, Wolfsburg; 2021, 2023, 2024, Bayern Munich)
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DFB-Pokal Winner (2014–15, Wolfsburg)
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Top Scorer in 2013 UEFA U-19 Qualifiers (14 goals)
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Over 50 caps and 18 goals for Serbia
Her journey has not been without setbacks. Damnjanović overcame a serious ACL injury in 2020, returning to top form and continuing to inspire teammates and fans alike.
Endorsements, Business Ventures, and Earnings
Jovana Damnjanović’s profile has attracted sponsorships with leading sports brands, including kit suppliers and local partners. Beyond football, she is an entrepreneur-opening her own café in Munich’s Neuhausen-Nymphenburg district in early 2025. The café, a lifelong dream, reflects her Serbian roots and passion for coffee culture, offering a welcoming space for locals and fans alike.
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Estimated Salary: While specific figures are undisclosed, top players at Bayern Munich Women typically earn competitive six-figure salaries annually, supplemented by performance bonuses and endorsements.
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Additional Earnings: Income from her café business and brand partnerships further boosts her financial profile.
Personal Life and Off-Field Interests
Damnjanović is known for her strong family ties and entrepreneurial spirit. Her café in Munich is a testament to her creativity and drive beyond the pitch. She’s also deeply connected to her Serbian heritage, often highlighting the importance of community and togetherness3.
FAQs About Jovana Damnjanović
1. What position does Jovana Damnjanović play?
She plays as a forward for Bayern Munich and the Serbia national team.
2. What are Jovana Damnjanović’s biggest achievements?
Her top honors include winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League, multiple Bundesliga titles, and being a top scorer in youth international tournaments.
3. How much does Jovana Damnjanović earn?
While exact figures are private, her salary at Bayern Munich, combined with endorsements and her café business, places her earnings in the six-figure range annually.
4. Does Jovana Damnjanović have any businesses?
Yes, she owns a café in Munich, which she opened in 2025, blending her love for coffee and community.
5. Who is Jovana Damnjanović related to in football?
Her cousin, Jelena Čanković, is also a professional footballer.
Conclusion
Jovana Damnjanović’s rise from Belgrade’s local pitches to the heights of European football is a story of resilience, ambition, and heart. Whether leading the line for Bayern Munich or inspiring the next generation in Serbia, she continues to break barriers and set new standards-on and off the field.
