Goalkeeper Berger committed to playing until his grandfather witnesses the final match
In the heart of the UEFA Women's EURO 2022, Ann-Katrin Berger, the national goalkeeper for Germany, has been a beacon of resilience and determination. Berger, who is currently with the US club Gotham FC, played a crucial role in the DFB team's journey to the final, despite facing a significant personal challenge.
During the tournament, Berger was diagnosed with a recurrence of thyroid cancer, a condition she had also battled in 2017. Despite this setback, Berger has continued to display an unwavering spirit, focusing on the present and living each moment with intention.
Berger's performance in the tournament has been commendable, with her quick return to top-level sport after her diagnosis serving as a testament to her strength and dedication. Her grandpa, a big supporter of her football career, has been a constant source of motivation, with Berger flashing a broad smile during the national anthem for him, even though he might not know much about football but values her presence.
However, Berger's journey has not been without challenges. Christian Wück, the coach, gave her a thumbs-down sign after a game, indicating dissatisfaction with her performance. Yet, Berger has taken this in stride, admitting to not playing her best game against Sweden but putting it behind her. She has also emphasised that there was never a goalkeeper debate within the team.
Berger's teammates, Stina Johannes and Ena Mahmutovic, have also made their mark on the team, providing support and camaraderie. Despite Wück already looking for a successor to Berger, Berger has continued to focus on her current role, not wanting to think about retirement just yet.
Berger's story is not just about her football career but also about her personal triumphs over adversity. Her philosophy, reflected in her tattoo "All we have is now," emphasises the value of enjoying every moment, a lesson she has learned through her experiences with cancer. Berger serves as a symbol of courage and resilience, inspiring fans through her story and her performances on the pitch.
As the quarter-final match against France approaches, scheduled for Saturday at 21:00 CET, Berger and the DFB team will be looking to continue their journey in the tournament. The game will be broadcast on ZDF and DAZN, offering fans the opportunity to witness Berger's inspiring performances and her unwavering spirit.
Meanwhile, Horst Hrubesch, the coach, has made changes to the team, demoting Merle Frohms before the 2024 Olympics and promoting Berger. Frohms has since bid farewell to the national team and moved from Wolfsburg to Real Madrid.
Berger's journey at the UEFA Women's EURO 2022 is a testament to her strength, resilience, and determination. Despite the personal challenges she has faced, Berger has continued to shine, inspiring fans and her teammates alike. Her story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find strength and succeed.
Ann-Katrin Berger, despite being diagnosed with a recurrence of thyroid cancer during the UEFA Women's EURO 2022, has shown an incredible spirit in football, especially in the Champions League, emphasizing her unwavering determination and resilience. Her focus remains on the present and intending to enjoy each moment, a philosophy she embodies with her tattoo "All we have is now."
