SHAH ALAM - Brazilian footballer Ketlen Wiggers has rewritten history by continuing to train with Santos FC while eight months pregnant, becoming the first female player in Brazil to do so.
The 32-year-old striker, who held the record as Santos’ all-time top scorer, was widely seen as a symbol of inspiration for women’s football in Brazil.
Her commitment to the game, even during pregnancy, has earned her admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.
After completing her final training session last Thursday, Wiggers decided to take a short break as she prepares to welcome her son, Lucca, later this year.
Santos fitness coach Isabella Silva Matos said the team made special adjustments to Wiggers' training routine to keep her active while prioritising safety.
“Since the beginning of her pregnancy, Ketlen continued to join her teammates for warm-up sessions, including leg strength and coordination training, but without any physical contact.
“For the main training sessions such as passing and finishing, we designed a special programme and she only performed passes, crosses and finishes individually,” Matos said.
In 2021, FIFA introduced new rules to safeguard the welfare of pregnant female players, including mandatory maternity leave for professional athletes. Santos became one of the first clubs in Brazil to adopt these guidelines.
Reflecting on her journey, Wiggers expressed heartfelt gratitude to her teammates, coaches and supporters for their unwavering encouragement.
“The treatment that Lucca and I have received during training has been incredible. I am so grateful for the love and support given by everyone at this club. It closes a beautiful and meaningful chapter in my life,” she said.
Wiggers is expected to give birth to her son at the end of November and plans to rejoin Santos for pre-season training in early 2026.