In the high-pressure world of international field hockey, few players combine flair, hunger, and finishing instinct like Frédérique Matla. A lethal forward with a knack for big moments, Matla has become one of the most prolific goal scorers in women’s hockey today—and a central figure in the Netherlands’ continued dominance on the global stage.
Whether she’s smashing in penalty corners or coolly sliding in a winner during open play, Matla is the kind of player who thrives when everything is on the line. She’s not just a forward—she’s a finisher, a fighter, and a fearsome presence for any opponent.
Early Life: A Born Competitor
Frédérique Matla was born on December 28, 1996, in Huizen, Netherlands. Growing up in a sport-loving country where hockey holds a special place, Matla’s journey began at a young age with local clubs, where her natural speed and goal sense quickly stood out.
As a teenager, she represented the Netherlands in youth international competitions, including the Junior World Cup, where her goal-scoring ability became her signature. By her late teens, she was already being groomed for greatness.
Club Career: The Pride of Den Bosch
Frédérique plays for HC Den Bosch, one of the most dominant and decorated clubs in the Hoofdklasse, the premier league of Dutch field hockey. With Den Bosch, she has won multiple national championships and European club titles, leading the scoring charts season after season.
Her club performances have not only shown consistency but also a sense of responsibility. She leads from the front—literally—bringing intensity, drive, and goals in equal measure.
International Career: A Star in the Orange Jersey
Matla made her senior international debut in 2017, and it didn’t take long before she became a core player in the Dutch squad. Known for her unmatched work rate and nose for goal, she quickly rose to be one of the team’s primary offensive weapons.
Career Highlights:
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🥇 Olympic Gold Medalist – Tokyo 2020
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🏆 FIH Hockey World Cup Champion – 2018 & 2022
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🥇 European Championships Winner – Multiple times
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🏑 Top Scorer in the FIH Pro League
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🎯 Known for scoring in finals and pressure situations
Frédérique is regularly the top scorer for the Netherlands across tournaments—a remarkable feat in one of the strongest teams in hockey history.
Playing Style: Sharp, Fast, and Ruthless
Matla’s style of play is as direct as it is devastating. She’s a forward who knows how to create, but more importantly—how to finish.
Core Strengths:
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Clinical Finishing: Deadly inside the circle, both from set pieces and open play
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Speed & Agility: Outruns and outsmarts defenders with sharp movements
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Versatility: Can play as a central striker or wide forward
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Mental Toughness: Delivers under pressure with calm execution
Whether it’s a penalty corner or a tight-angle finish, Matla rarely needs a second invitation to strike.
Off the Pitch: Competitive, Grounded, and Driven
While her game is fierce, Frédérique off the pitch is known for being focused, thoughtful, and committed to her craft. She’s a role model for aspiring athletes—particularly young women—who admire her dedication, discipline, and team-first mentality.
She frequently speaks about the importance of preparation, both physically and mentally, and is often involved in mentoring and media efforts to promote women’s hockey worldwide.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As one of the most marketable faces in women’s field hockey, Matla earns through:
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Club contract with Den Bosch
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Dutch national team support and performance bonuses
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Sponsorship deals with athletic wear, equipment, and health brands
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Media appearances, clinics, and ambassador roles
With her fame rising both in Europe and globally, Matla’s brand value continues to grow, especially among younger audiences.
What’s Next: A Legacy Still in Progress
Though she’s already an Olympic and World Champion, Frédérique Matla’s ambition is far from satisfied. Her goals for the future include:
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Becoming the all-time top scorer for the Netherlands
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Leading the Dutch team in Paris 2024 and beyond
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Supporting youth development and coaching initiatives post-career
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Elevating the global profile of women’s hockey
