Sara Gama, a central defender born in 1989 and a cornerstone of Juventus Women and Italian football, has officially announced her retirement from the sport on April 28, 2025. Gama, who has been a significant figure in women's football, joined Juventus in 2017 and quickly ascended to the role of captain, leading the team through numerous triumphs over the past eight years.
In a heartfelt message shared on her Instagram account, Gama reflected on her journey, stating, "From Trieste to Turin passing through the world. It was an incredible journey. And what I will take with me are the people." This sentiment captures the essence of her career, which has been marked by not only personal achievements but also a deep connection with her teammates and the fans.
At the age of 36, Gama leaves behind an impressive legacy, having made 153 appearances for Juventus and winning a staggering 12 titles, including six championships, three Coppa Italia trophies, and two Supercoppa Italiana titles. Her contributions extend beyond club success; she has also earned 135 caps and scored seven goals for the Italian national team, making her one of the most capped players in the history of Italian women's football.
Gama's career began in her hometown of Trieste, where she played for local teams such as Zaule and Polisportiva San Marco, the first entirely women's team in the area. Her journey took her to various clubs, including Tavagnacco, Chiasiellis, and Brescia, before she ventured abroad to play for Paris Saint-Germain. After returning to Brescia, where she celebrated significant victories, Gama ultimately joined Juventus when the club launched its women's team.
The impact of Gama's presence at Juventus has been profound. The club described her as a "symbol and reference" for the team and the sport, emphasizing that she has revolutionized the perception of women's football in Italy. In a statement, Juventus said, "Sara, you revolutionised not only our team, but Italian women’s football as a whole. You are the epitome of tenacity, you are endurance personified, you sum up what it means to be Juventus." This recognition speaks volumes about her influence on and off the field.
Despite recent struggles with injuries that limited her appearances to just four Serie A matches this season, Gama’s leadership and experience remained vital to the club. She was one of the last remaining players from the inaugural Juventus Women squad, alongside notable teammates like Martina Rosucci and Barbara Bonansea. As she prepares to step away from the game, a special send-off is planned for her during the season finale against Inter Milan on May 10, 2025, at Allianz Stadium. This match is not only a celebration of the season but also a tribute to Gama’s remarkable career.
In her farewell letter, Gama reminisced about her beginnings, stating, "It all started in Trieste. A ball, the first kicks taken without thinking too much in my neighborhood or along the waterfront of Barcola. The first team with my lifelong friends, Zaule, and then Polisportiva San Marco, the first entirely female team, a field surrounded by water." She continued to share her experiences, highlighting her time in Los Angeles and Paris, where she gained invaluable international exposure.
Gama's letter also reflected on the emotional depths of her career, saying, "These years represent an indescribable journey; however, the most important thing that will stay with me, as it happens to all of us who live on sport and emotions, are the people. The teammates with whom we fought for victories on the field and for something bigger off it. Walking side by side with you on this journey has been the most important thing for me."
Her gratitude extended to her family, teammates, and fans, whom she credited for their unwavering support throughout her career. "Thank you to my family for doing the most important thing: giving me the freedom to decide my own destiny and to chart my own path. And thank you to the people who have been close to me over the years and become part of my family. And then, thanks to you, the fans. You have grown with us. Know that your emotions are ours as well," she expressed.
As Gama moves on from her playing days, she leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the pitch. She has not only been a fierce competitor but also a role model for aspiring athletes in Italy and around the world. Her love for the game remains evident as she concludes, "Today I kick that ball and let it go. With pride, with gratitude, with a full heart: it is my farewell to playing football, yet the love for this sport and its people will stay with me forever."
As the Juventus Women prepare to honor Gama in her final match, fans and teammates alike will undoubtedly reflect on the indelible mark she has left on the club and the sport. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her influence will continue to inspire future generations of female footballers.
