Croatian Forward Ana Maria Markovic Joins Brooklyn FC

Brooklyn FC, competing in the USL Gainbridge Super League, has signed Croatian striker Ana Maria Markovic, along with her sister Kiki, ahead of the team’s second season in top-tier women’s soccer.

The 25-year-old athlete, often called the ‘world’s most beautiful footballer,’ expressed her excitement about joining Brooklyn FC. She shared, “Signing with Brooklyn FC is an exciting step for me. I’ve played in incredible places, but I already feel the energetic vibe of this club and city. Sharing this experience with my sister makes it even more meaningful, and we’re here to make an impact.”

Born in Split and raised in Switzerland, Markovic previously played for FC Zürich and Grasshoppers before transferring to SC Braga in Portugal. Despite signing for Braga in August 2024, she left the club in February, citing personal reasons linked to her partner, Portuguese footballer Tomas Ribeiro, who was transferred from Vitoria Guimaraes to Farense.

Markovic publicly expressed her frustrations with football on social media, including a TikTok video hinting she was struggling with her career and feelings about the sport. She left Braga after a brief stint, during which she made four appearances. She later moved to SF Damaiense near Lisbon, though it’s unclear if she played matches there.

Throughout her career, Markovic has earned 25 caps for the Croatian national team, scoring two goals, most recently against Kosovo in June 2024. She has been an outspoken advocate against sexist comments on social media, highlighting the discrimination female players often face.

In her debut match for Brooklyn, she came on as a substitute in a victory over Tampa Bay Sun FC. Markovic continues to pursue her football career while advocating for equality and inspiring young players.