Christiane Endler is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in women’s football history. Known for her commanding presence, shot-stopping ability, and leadership, she has starred for top clubs in Europe and captained Chile to historic milestones on the international stage.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 23, 1991, in Santiago, Chile, to a German father and Chilean-Italian mother, Endler excelled in multiple sports as a child before fully committing to football. Originally a forward, she switched to goalkeeper at 15 on the advice of a national team coach, quickly making her mark with Unión La Calera’s women’s team.
College Career
Endler played collegiate soccer for the University of South Florida Bulls from 2012 to 2014, making 38 appearances. She was a standout performer, earning multiple weekly and season honors, and helped lead the Bulls to a regular season conference championship. Her time in the U.S. also allowed her to learn English and study business administration.
Club Career
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Unión La Calera, Everton, Colo-Colo: Began her senior career in Chile, winning multiple league titles and the 2012 Copa Libertadores with Colo-Colo.
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Chelsea (2014): Brief stint in England’s FA Women’s Super League, fulfilling a childhood dream to play professionally in Europe.
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Valencia (2016–2017): Starred in Spain, winning the Zamora Trophy for best goals-against record.
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Paris Saint-Germain (2017–2021): Became one of the world’s top goalkeepers, winning the Coupe de France and leading PSG to their first French league title in 2021, ending Lyon’s 14-year dominance.
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Lyon (2021–present): Joined Europe’s top club, winning Division 1 Féminine and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. As of April 2025, she has made 68 league appearances for Lyon and remains the club’s No. 1.
International Career
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Chile U-20 & Senior Team: Debuted for the senior national team in 2009 at age 18. Amassed 104 caps by 2023, captaining Chile to their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019 and their Olympic debut in 2021.
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World Cup 2019: Captained Chile, delivered a Player of the Match performance against the USA, and helped Chile to their first World Cup win.
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Olympics 2021: Led Chile in their historic first Olympic appearance.
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Retirement: Announced her retirement from international football after the 2023 Pan American Games, leaving a legacy as Chile’s most-capped and influential player.
Achievements and Honors
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Club:
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Copa Libertadores Champion (2012, Colo-Colo)
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Multiple Chilean league titles
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Coupe de France (PSG)
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Division 1 Féminine Champion (PSG, Lyon)
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UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner (Lyon)
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Individual:
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The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper (2021)
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Three-time finalist for Best FIFA Goalkeeper (2019–2022)
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Zamora Trophy (Valencia, 2017)
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Nine-time Chilean Footballer of the Year
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Division 1 Féminine Goalkeeper of the Year (2018–19)
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Named in UWCL Squad of the Season (2019–2022)
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Style of Play
Endler is celebrated for her athleticism, quick reflexes, and ability to command her penalty area. She is known for excellent positioning, distribution, and leadership-often starting attacks with precise passes. Her performances in major tournaments have been described as “astonishing” and “spectacular” by peers and media alike.
Career Stats (as of April 2025)
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Date of Birth: July 23, 1991
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Age: 33
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Height: 1.82 m
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Position: Goalkeeper
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Current Club: Lyon (No. 1)
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Previous Clubs: Unión La Calera, Everton, Colo-Colo, Chelsea, Valencia, PSG
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Lyon Appearances: 68
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Chile Senior Caps: 104
Frequently Asked Questions About Christiane Endler
How old is Christiane Endler?
She is 33 years old, born on July 23, 1991.
What position does Christiane Endler play?
She is a goalkeeper for Lyon and formerly for the Chilean national team.
What are Christiane Endler’s major achievements?
She has won league titles in Chile, France, and Spain, a Copa Libertadores, the UEFA Women’s Champions League, and was named The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper in 2021.
What makes Christiane Endler stand out?
Her shot-stopping, leadership, consistency at the highest level, and trailblazing impact for Chilean and South American women’s football.
Conclusion
Christiane Endler’s journey from Santiago to the summit of world football is a testament to her talent, resilience, and leadership. As a record-breaker for club and country and a role model for future generations, she remains one of the most influential goalkeepers in the history of the women’s game.
