Kathrin Julia Hendrich is a German-Belgian professional footballer renowned for her versatility, intelligence, and consistency as a defender. She plays for VfL Wolfsburg in the Frauen-Bundesliga and is a key figure for the German national team, capable of performing as a centre-back, full-back, or sweeper.
Early Life and Background
Born on April 6, 1992, in Eupen, Belgium, Hendrich has a Belgian mother and German father. She began her football journey at age seven with FC Eupen, later moving to FC Teutonia Weiden before joining Bayer Leverkusen’s youth system
Club Career
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Bayer Leverkusen (2009–2014): Hendrich made 104 league appearances and scored 4 goals, helping the club achieve promotion to the Bundesliga
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1. FFC Frankfurt (2014–2018): She played 86 matches, scored 4 goals, and won the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2015.
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Bayern Munich (2018–2020): Hendrich made 40 league appearances, scored 3 goals, and continued to establish herself as a top defender
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VfL Wolfsburg (2020–present): Since joining Wolfsburg, she has made over 77 league appearances (as of September 2024), wearing the number 4 shirt and remaining a regular starter in domestic and European competitions.
International Career
Hendrich has represented Germany at all youth levels and debuted for the senior national team in 2014. As of November 2024, she has earned 82 caps and scored 5 goals for Germany. She has participated in major tournaments, including the FIFA U-20 World Cup (runner-up in 2012), UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 (runner-up), the 2016 Olympics (gold medal), and the 2024 Olympics (bronze medal).
Honours & Achievements
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Club:
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UEFA Women’s Champions League winner (2015, Frankfurt)
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Multiple Frauen-Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles with Wolfsburg and previous clubs
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International:
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Olympic Gold Medal (2016), Bronze Medal (2024)
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UEFA Women’s Euro runner-up (2022)
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FIFA U-20 World Cup runner-up (2012)
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Algarve Cup winner (2014)
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Silbernes Lorbeerblatt (Silver Laurel Leaf, 2024)
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Individual:
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Known for her versatility, leadership, and reliability in defense
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Style of Play
Hendrich is a modern, athletic defender (1.74 m), comfortable as a centre-back, full-back, or defensive midfielder. She is praised for her tactical awareness, positioning, and ability to organize the backline
Personal Life
Kathrin Hendrich is multilingual and has a multicultural background, reflecting her Belgian and German heritage. She is respected for her professionalism and leadership on and off the pitch.
FAQs About Kathrin Hendrich
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What position does Kathrin Hendrich play?
Primarily a centre-back, but also plays as a full-back or sweeper -
Which clubs has she played for?
Bayer Leverkusen, 1. FFC Frankfurt, Bayern Munich, and VfL Wolfsburg -
How many caps for Germany?
82 senior caps and 5 goals (as of November 2024) -
What are her biggest achievements?
Champions League winner, Olympic gold and bronze medals, and multiple domestic titles1. -
How old is Kathrin Hendrich?
Born April 6, 1992 (33 years old as of 2025)
Conclusion
Kathrin Hendrich’s journey from Eupen to the top of European football with Wolfsburg and Germany highlights her exceptional defensive talent, adaptability, and leadership. She remains one of the most respected and reliable defenders in the women’s game.
