Paraguayan Football star Claudia Martínez Earns Golden Ball Recognition, Eyes Global Stage & Local Impact
ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay - Claudia Martínez, the rising star of Paraguayan football, has been recognized with a Golden Ball award, solidifying her status as a leading talent and fueling ambitions both on and off the field.The young forward’s exceptional speed,power,and scoring ability have drawn attention from clubs across Europe,the United states,and South America,even as she remains committed to completing her high school education and her current club,Olimpia.
Martínez’s story transcends athletic achievement, embodying a dedication to family and a vision for transforming the landscape of women’s football in Paraguay. The 18-year-old’s immediate goals include providing stability for her parents - “give my parents a stable house where they can be fine, give them a business to work quietly,” she told La Nación – while concurrently pursuing a professional career abroad to elevate her game and broaden her impact.This recognition comes at a pivotal moment for women’s football in Paraguay, a sport frequently enough lacking investment and institutional support.
A lifelong admirer of Lionel Messi, whose image adorned her childhood bedroom, Martínez is currently training in Asunción under the guidance of Irma Cuevas, a Paraguayan scoring legend with over 600 career goals. Despite significant interest from international clubs, she is prioritizing finishing school while maintaining her connection to Olimpia.
Beyond personal success, Martínez envisions a future where aspiring Paraguayan footballers have access to the resources they need to thrive. She plans to establish a training center in Paraguay to support players lacking adequate facilities and opportunities, addressing a critical need within the nation’s football infrastructure. Her commitment to both individual growth and collective advancement positions her as a role model and a catalyst for change within Paraguayan sport.
