Driving Force: DFB Player Competings for Her Grandfather at the European Championships (92)
Ann-Katrin Berger, the German women's national football team's goalkeeper, has revealed a deeply personal motivation for her pursuit of the European Championship (EM) title - her beloved grandfather. Berger's emotional connection with her family, particularly her grandfather, has been instrumental in fueling her determination to excel with the team.
In a heartwarming display of familial bonding, Berger's grandfather, now 92 years old, has been present at key matches, including the team's first group game against Poland (2:0) in St. Gallen. His presence serves as a constant reminder of her roots and the importance of striving for excellence in her football career.
Berger's grandfather, known for his strict yet loving nature, has been a source of inspiration and criticism for the goalkeeper. He wears a jersey to the games, and his thumbs-up or thumbs-down verdict carries significant weight for Berger. Despite his lack of football knowledge, he values appearance and has often criticised the serious looks of many players, encouraging Berger to maintain a friendly demeanour during the national anthem.
Berger's journey with the German team has not been without challenges. She admitted to not playing her best game against Sweden (1:4), a setback she has since put behind her after thorough analysis. Her grandfather's unwavering support has been a beacon of hope, driving her to improve and perform under pressure.
Berger's motivation for the EM title extends beyond personal achievement. She hopes that her grandfather will attend the final, a dream that serves as a powerful incentive for her to give her all in every match. Despite her attempts to convince him to attend games beyond the quarter-finals and semi-finals, he has expressed a desire to only attend the final.
Interestingly, Berger has chosen to disconnect from the news since leaving Germany. Her focus remains squarely on her football and her family, particularly her grandfather, who continues to be her guiding light.
As the German team prepares for the upcoming quarter-final against France, Berger's emotional drive is a testament to the power of family ties and the enduring influence they can have on athletes' performances. With her grandfather's inspiration always close by, Berger is poised to make a significant impact on the pitch and potentially lead her team to Euro glory.
Driven by her love for her grandfather, Ann-Katrin Berger aims to lead her team to victory in the Champions League, a competition she sees as a potential opportunity for her grandfather to witness another significant match. In moments of pressure, Berger draws strength from her grandfather's presence, emulating the friendly demeanor he values during national anthems.
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