beautiful picturesSpanish football is currently at the top of the world.
Last year, the country’s women’s team won the World Cup in a thrilling final against England.
But, as Alexia Putellas was quick to point out when she spoke to BBC Newsbeat, they weren’t the only ones carrying silverware.
The country’s under-17 and under-20 women’s teams are also the current world champions.
Oh, the men’s team also won the Euros a few weeks ago.
Now Putellas, a two-time winner of the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, is aiming for another prize.
Barcelona captain will soon kick-start Spain’s Olympic gold medal campaign.
Male athletes over the age of 24 are not allowed to represent their countries in this major sporting event, but there is no age limit for women.
Putellas, speaking after training for the Olympics in Paris, admitted she was “very tired” after post-season training.
And while she is keen to close out Spain’s remarkable run of football success, she said the Olympics are “very different” to other tournaments.
“It was like magic,” Putellas said.
“There will be the best athletes from every sport around the world. So it’s great to be involved.”
But you can never have too many medals.
“We don’t just want to participate – we want to compete and of course win,” Putellas said.
The midfielder has some winning experience – she helped her club Barcelona win eight national championships and three Champions League titles.
She was also a member of the Spanish World Cup winning team and is the country’s top scorer and most-capped female player.
“You have to work and practice every day,” she said.
“If you love it, you work hard at it. And I think good things will come.”
beautiful picturesShe said a large part of her success was also thanks to the resources that Barcelona invested in its women’s team.
“I feel so lucky. Because I come to the club every morning and I have everything to work hard for,” she said.
“All the amenities, best trainers, best staff.
“I feel bad, because I know that’s not the reality for all the players.”
In England, there are concerns about resources for women’s football.
Some teams have financial difficultieseven as revenue grew more broadly.
“I hope everyone takes women’s football as seriously as Barcelona,” said Putellas.
“Everyone is asking to take pictures with you or cheering you on, it’s just magical.”
Putellas have said before about the organizations need to show “courage and leadership” to prevent women from being subjected to “disrespect or abuse”.
Her teammate Jenni Hermoso was kissed without consent by former Spanish football president Luis Rubiales.
He is is currently facing charges. on charges of sexual assault and coercion, which he has denied.
Putellas feels the government could do more to support women’s football.
“We are working and I think things are going better than before,” she said.
“But it’s never enough.”
She said she felt a responsibility to use her platform to promote women’s careers in sports.
“As a person, I am a quiet person. I like to be with my family and friends,” she said.
“But I also have a lot of passion for sports, not just as a footballer, but as an ambassador and a mentor.”
beautiful picturesThroughout his career, Putellas has suffered many setbacks and injuries, but has always bounced back.
She advises other young players not to lose hope during difficult times.
“I feel like sometimes players have to do things that are not our job,” she said.
“Sometimes our strength must lie on the ground.
“But maybe you have another chance at another club. Try to work hard and be positive.”
Ultimately, for Putellas, it’s the love of the game that drives them.
“Why is football so special? Because I think it’s the best thing I can do, I’ve been practicing football since I was six years old,” she said.
“I like the way you connect with your teammates inside the pitch… if you connect with a teammate and pass, pass, pass.
“And the moment you score – that feeling creates happiness,” she said.
