Lia Wälti is a renowned Swiss professional footballer, celebrated for her exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication on and off the pitch. As a prominent figure in women’s football, she currently plays for Arsenal W.F.C. in the English Women’s Super League and captains the Swiss national team. Lia’s football journey began... Read more
Lia Wälti is a renowned Swiss professional footballer, celebrated for her exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication on and off the pitch. As a prominent figure in women’s football, she currently plays for Arsenal W.F.C. in the English Women’s Super League and captains the Swiss national team.
Lia’s football journey began in her hometown of Langnau i. E., where she started playing with boys before moving up to YB Frauen in Switzerland’s top women’s league. She then joined the top-tier club Turbine Potsdam in the German Bundesliga. In 2018, she signed with Arsenal W.F.C., becoming a key player and significantly contributing to their domestic and European campaigns.
Since making her debut for the Swiss national team in 2011, Lia has earned over 100 caps. Her leadership and strategic prowess were pivotal in Switzerland’s qualification for major tournaments, including the UEFA Women’s European Championship and the FIFA Women’s World Cup. A major highlight of her career will be leading Switzerland at the home EUROS next year, underscoring her enduring impact on the national team.
Lia’s excellence has been acknowledged through numerous accolades, such as being named Swiss Female Player of the Year in 2021 and 2023.
Alongside her football career, Lia is studying Business and Sports Management to gain insights into the sports industry. She is also starting her own business, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Lia is co-writing a children’s book with her sister, aiming to instill values of perseverance, teamwork, and a positive mindset in young readers while addressing structural issues in girls’ and women’s football.
She is a passionate advocate for the growth and recognition of women’s sports, particularly in Switzerland. She frequently speaks about the importance of gender equality in sports and inspires young athletes to pursue their dreams regardless of societal barriers.
In addition to her playing career, Lia mentors young footballers. She has completed her UEFA B Licence and will pursue the UEFA A Licence in the upcoming year. She shares insights on teamwork, resilience, and the mental toughness required to succeed at the highest levels of sport.
Lia’s journey from a small-town player to an international football star who regularly plays in front of a 60,000-strong crowd is a story of perseverance, hard work, and overcoming obstacles. She draws on her personal experiences to motivate and engage audiences, offering valuable lessons on leadership, goal-setting, and determination.
Insights and anecdotes from her career in professional football, highlighting the dedication and passion required to excel.
Strategies for empowering women in sports and beyond, and promoting gender equality in all aspects of life.
Techniques for fostering teamwork, managing crises, and navigating the challenges of team dynamics.
Approaches to adapting to change, building resilience, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity.