Marta, the celebrated six-time world player of the year, has officially extended her contract with the Orlando Pride through the end of the 2026 season, adding another chapter to her incredible journey just over a month after leading the team to its first-ever NWSL Championship. The news brings excitement for fans and players alike, especially after Marta’s standout performances last season, where her undeniable talent shone brightly.
This offseason, Marta was one of the most sought-after free agents in the NWSL. Back in November, she shared her determination to play for at least two more seasons, emphasizing her love for the game and her team. After joining the Orlando Pride in 2017, Marta has not just been a player; she has been a beacon of inspiration and passion for aspiring young athletes everywhere.
As she approaches her 39th birthday next month, it’s hard to overlook her incredible form. In the 2024 season, she scored an impressive 11 goals across all competitions, helping propel the Pride to both the NWSL Shield and the NWSL Championship. This kind of performance isn’t something you see every day from someone nearing 40 years old. The team’s remarkable unbeaten streak of 23 matches this season speaks volumes about their cohesion and grit.
Reflecting on her journey, Marta shared her excitement: “This is a team where everybody works for each other, where everyone believes in each other. I’m so excited to continue this journey with this club.” Her words resonate with anyone who has ever been part of a team or community where collaboration and support were paramount. Last season, against all odds, they proved their naysayers wrong and achieved something deeply special—an accomplishment that resonates personally with Marta as well. She highlighted that reaching ten seasons with the Orlando Pride is particularly meaningful to her, especially since she has worn the iconic number 10 throughout her career.
During the championship run, Marta’s skill was on full display. She scored crucial goals in the quarterfinals and semifinals, with her phenomenal strike in the semifinal against the Kansas City Current echoing her legendary 2007 World Cup goal against the United States. You could feel the energy in the stadium; it was more than just football—it was history being written.
Marta’s revitalized form has also reignited her role with Brazil as they sought an Olympic silver medal, once again facing off against the United States in the final—a familiar showdown for Marta, who now holds three silver medals from the Olympics. It’s clear that her contributions extend beyond her club.
In November, amid all the excitement, Marta addressed the possibility of playing in the 2027 World Cup, set to take place in Brazil. Despite the allure, she emphasized her desire to enjoy her time on the field without the pressure of selection looming overhead. “When I say I don’t want to play 2027, I don’t want to have this responsibility to play for the club to be in the national team,” she stated before the championship, indicating a profound shift in her mindset. She has spent over two decades managing the weight of expectations, and now, she craves a different kind of enjoyment in the sport.
Two days later, she helped secure Orlando’s first NWSL title—a rewarding triumph which marked her first domestic championship in the U.S. since 2011, providing a heartwarming sense of closure to her journey thus far.
Marta rejoins a Pride team that is expected to retain its core lineup, including star striker Barbra Banda. The club is clearly invested in continuing their upward trajectory. “Coming off the most successful season in our club’s history and personally, one of the best of her professional career, re-signing Marta was a key business priority for us during this offseason,” said Haley Carter, vice president of sporting operations and sporting director. This statement underscores not just Marta’s unparalleled skills but also her essential role as a leader, proving that her impact goes beyond the pitch—she’s molded a community around the team, providing hope and inspiration to fans and players alike.
As fans and supporters celebrate this new chapter, they can’t help but feel a sense of optimism for what lies ahead. With Marta at the helm, it’s clear that the Pride are ready to chase more championships, embark on new adventures, and continue inspiring the next generation of footballers.
