Wendie Renard is a real legend of French women's football. This Saturday evening, she will play her 500th match under the colors of Lyon against Paris FC.
In an interview with RMC Sport, the captain of the French team did not hide her emotion and pride when asked what these 500 games represent for her: ” Many things demonstrate my regularity, I was little injured. Because there are not many games in women's football, especially at the start of my career. Even if there was more year by year. This demonstrates my professionalism, my work, my perseverance, my quality too. I am proud, very proud. Especially when I know where I left, and I did not think of reaching this figure which is very symbolic, very strong for me. But I don't want to stop there, I always want to go higher, to go forward. But this step is wonderful. “
Arriving at OL in 2007, the Lyon defender quickly established itself and became a team leader who gradually became the reference to women's football. “Yes it's true, I impose myself very quickly. By my character, and my way of observing. Take what is good among others to be able to progress. Also look at others. But I have always been like that from little, even with the boys when I started I was a captain with them. As you say, it may be innate, but we also learn with everyday experience and experience. I am always thirsty, I always want to learn that it is in life or sportingly She says when questioned about her leader status.
Wendie Renard ready to break the record?
Wendie Renard is one of those who have throughout their careers showed infallible love at the club that believed in them. Beyond the symbolic number of the 500th match played under the Lyon colors, this number brought it a little more into the history of OL. She could ultimately become the most capped element in the history of the Rhone club, players and players combined, if she decides to go to the end of her contract which goes until 2027. This will allow her to exceed Grégory Coupet (516 matches) and Sergio Chiesa (541 matches).
“” It is widely playable. At first, I admit that it was not in my plans. But now why not. Everything in its time. Inevitably you have to have ambition and move forward, but I prefer to have ambition in the titles. After that it is a symbolic figure which demonstrates a lot of man/women combined in addition. It also proves my love for this club, this president who has always believed in us: Jean-Michel Aulas She says.
To mark the event, Olympique Lyonnais has decided to launch a special operation to allow supporters to participate in the party. All places will be sold at a single rate of 5 euros.
