How did you start your journey in football ?
My journey with football started at a very young age. I was always an active child and naturally drawn to sports, but football quickly became my passion. Playing on the streets and school fields, I realized how much joy and freedom the game gave me. Over time, that passion turned into discipline, training, and the desire to compete at higher levels.
What do you think is the biggest difference between playing football in the U.S. and in Turkey ?
There are several key differences. In the U.S., there is an incredibly well-developed system that allows athletes to pursue both education and football at a high level at the same time. The environment is very supportive ,not only from institutions, but also from fans and the wider community. Unlike in Turkiye, women’s football is much more popular and receives consistent attention and support. Additionally, the youth development system is extremely advanced, which creates a strong football culture from a young age.
As a Turkish female footballer playing abroad, what moment made you feel the most proud ?
The proudest moment of my career was becoming a national champion abroad while carrying the responsibility of representing my country. Standing on the field as a Turkish woman, knowing that I wasn’t just playing for myself but also representing my culture, my people, and the strength of Turkish women, was incredibly emotional. That experience showed me how powerful football can be ,not only as a competition, but also as a platform to break barriers and inspire others back home.
Do you think university education contributed to your football career ?
Absolutely. university education played a huge role in my development. It helped me grow mentally, manage pressure, and balance responsibilities. Studying while playing football taught me discipline, time management, and leadership ,qualities that directly improved my performance on the field.
Do your teammates show curiosity about Turkey and Turkish football ?
Yes, they do. They often ask about Turkish culture, football atmosphere, and how women’s football is developing in Turkiye. Many are surprised by how passionate fans are and how talented Turkish players can be, despite limited opportunities.
If you had a magic wand, what is the one thing you would change for women’s football ?
I would raise the level of visibility and investment in women’s football, because everything begins with being seen and supported. When the game receives consistent media coverage and proper financial backing, it gains the resources needed to improve its quality, strengthen its professionalism, and earn the respect it deserves. In other words, once visibility and investment are in place, real progress becomes unavoidable.
What is the next step in your career goals ?
My ambition is to compete at the professional level, earn a place on the national team, and represent my country with excellence and responsibility. I hold myself to very high standards and work consistently to meet and exceed them. Alongside my football career, I am committed to pursuing a master’s degree and continuously improving myself through education and personal development, both on and off the pitch. I believe discipline, mindset, and high standards are non-negotiable for long-term success.
