When raw talent meets opportunity, stars are born. Priyadharshini Selladurai, born 26 February 2003 in Tamil Nadu, exemplifies this truth. From humble beginnings on village paddy fields to representing India, her rapid ascent is as inspiring as her skill on the ball.
Childhood & Roots in Football
Growing up in Savalakkaran, a village in Tamil Nadu, Priyadharshini discovered football by watching her schoolmates play. She played barefoot in rice paddies—not knowing those muddy fields would shape her destiny. Encouraged by a local coach who convinced her family to support her passion, she began training consistently, quickly standing out with her control and vision
At age 13, she represented Tamil Nadu in the National School Games, marking her first taste of football outside her home state
Club Career: Domestic Impact & Growth
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FC Thamizhatchi & Tamil Nadu State Team: Priyadharshini honed her skills at the grassroots and state level, gaining attention through strong performances.
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Sethu FC: Joined in 2022–23, gaining valuable exposure in the Indian Women’s League.
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Gokulam Kerala FC: In 2023–24, she became a strong substitute, while truly making waves in the Kerala Women’s League—scoring 24 goals and finishing as the top scorer
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Kemp FC (2024–25): Playing in the Karnataka league, she scored a notable hat-trick, showcasing her ability to seize every opportunity
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Liberty Ladies FC (2025–): Currently with the IWL‑2 side as a key midfielder and influential leader
National Team Breakthrough
In February 2025, Priyadharshini earned her first national call‑up for the Pink Ladies Cup training camp. She made her senior debut on 30 May 2025 in a friendly against Uzbekistan in Bengaluru, substituted in the second half
Just weeks later, on 23 June 2025, she scored her first two international goals in India’s historic 13–0 victory over Mongolia during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers in Chiang Mai—goals that made headlines as part of India’s largest-ever win in AFC competition
As of 2 July 2025, she boasts 4 caps and 2 goals for the senior national team
Playing Style & Key Strengths
Priyadharshini thrives as a creative attacking midfielder with an instinct for goal. Her standout strengths include:
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Composure in tight spaces, showing assured control and quick decision-making.
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Clinical finishing, evidenced by her duo against Mongolia.
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Vision for assists, excelling at unlocking defenses with incisive passes.
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Goal-scoring flair from mid-pitch, proven across multiple domestic leagues.
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Undying work ethic, reflecting her journey from fields to football fields.
Her multifaceted role as a number 10 has quickly become invaluable to both club and country
Achievements & Milestones
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Senior International Debut: May 2025 vs Uzbekistan.
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First International Goals: Brace against Mongolia in June 2025.
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Top Scorer: Kerala Women’s League (24 goals).
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Hat‑trick hero: Kemp FC in Karnataka Women’s League.
Influence, Endorsements & Earnings
Priyadharshini’s rise from grassroots football to national acclaim reflects her inspiring story. She has secured a government role under sports quota, granting her paid leave during national duties and providing community pride
Her earnings currently include:
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Club contracts with IWL and regional clubs.
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Match and training fees from the national team.
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Public sector allowance through her government job.
While exact figures are private, her financial foundation is solid, combining football earnings with government support—an ideal platform to build a stable career.
What Lies Ahead
At just 22, Priyadharshini Selladurai is entering a significant phase of her career. With momentum from her national team breakthrough and standout domestic performances, she is on the brink of cementing her place in India’s midfield.
Her combination of creativity, composure, and competitive drive makes her a genuine contender to be India’s next midfield star. As the AFC qualifiers continue and the IWL evolves, her journey promises to inspire and influence Indian football’s next chapter.
