Kathrin "Kathy" Hendrich is a key player for Germany's national football team. She talks about her career, new team, and future plans.
Kathrin Hendrich, known as "Kathy," is taking a break after a tough year. The German national player has played 90 international matches. She thinks about her path after Germany lost the Nations League title to Spain this month.
This summer, Kathy moved to the United States to join the Chicago Red Stars. She spent 15 years in Germany's Bundesliga with clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, 1. FFC Frankfurt, FC Bayern München, and VfL Wolfsburg. The National Women’s Soccer League has a different schedule. She will start training for the new season in early 2026.
Kathy is on holiday in her hometown of Eupen, Belgium. She is happy to see family and friends again. She enjoys her favorite treat, Pudding-Berliner, which she can only get there. She calls it a reward after a hard year.
Kathy sees big changes in the national team. Many young players bring new energy. This makes her want to keep playing. The team has good spirit, and she likes being part of it.
Over 15 years, Kathy has seen women's football grow fast. The game is more intense in body contact and plans. Training is quicker with less stops. This makes matches more fun.
Kathy wants to stay with the national team for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. She feels proud to play for Germany. She wants to help young players with her knowledge.
In the NWSL, Kathy sees a different way of thinking. Players cheer good moves and wins. In Germany, they focus more on errors. She likes the kind support in the US. It helps her get better.
Next year, Kathy hopes to help Chicago Red Stars stay out of last place and reach playoffs. With the national team, she wants good results in World Cup qualifying.
