Born and raised in France,Sandy BaltimoreFootball players belonging to a new generation are rewriting a new definition of “contemporary athletes”.
Baltimore joins Chelsea ahead of the 2024/25 season, having previously played forParis Saint-Germainand signed a four-year contract with the “Blues”.In the following debut season, she had a brilliant record, won trophies, and finished 15th in the Women’s Ballon d’Or that year. Standing only 5 feet 1 inch, she is extremely fast on her feet and has well-balanced skills.
BaltimoreShe is best known for herChelsea women’s football andFrance national teamShows speed and accuracy when playing as a left winger. However, what also caught our attention was the 24-year-old’s taste in private servers off the court.
Away from the court, Baltimore is making a name for herself in the fashion world, swapping out her training suits for well-coordinated looks. Just scroll through her Instagram and you’ll see pink Air Force 1s, leather racing jackets, and designer loafers from Prada to Duke+Dexter. She is equally familiar with streetwear. She often wears loose-fitting sports trousers with just the right fit, paired with favorite brands such as Stüssy.
This time, we chatted with Baltimore about her latest cooperation with PUMA – the platform for the brand’s new flagship store in London, as well as her favorite fashion items and her pre-match mentality. Read on for the full interview.
Can you tell us a little bit about how you first got into football?
When I was a kid, I played football just for fun. People around me recognized my talent and encouraged me to join the club. I continued playing with boys until I was 15. This experience allowed me to continuously improve my skills and strengthened my love for the sport.
You just participated in a collaborative project for the opening of a new PUMA store. How does it feel to appear with so many talented people?
I’m really proud. It’s especially inspiring to be surrounded by so many talented and creative people. You can clearly feel that PUMA wants to celebrate athletes and contemporary culture. Being a part of this project is extra special for me.
Coming from France, what do you love most about London?
I love the energy of this city. London is always awake, there are always new things to explore and new people to meet. And the football culture here is really fascinating.
You love to do a “fit check” to show off your outfit. So what are your most worn and favorite items lately?
Recently, I’ve been obsessed with simple yet stylish items: oversized sweatshirts, functional outfits, and of course, sneakers. I like to add a touch of streetwear to comfort.
Outside of being a player, what do you most want people to know about you?
I’m actually quite quiet and a bit introverted. After football, I enjoy simple things like staying with friends, going out for a walk, and shopping. For me, it’s very important to be able to relax and enjoy life away from the court.
You’ve been playing football since you were 10 years old. What advice would you give to girls who want to pursue a career in sports, or become professional athletes? Going back to when you first started, what do you wish you had known then?
I want to tell them that they must believe in themselves, even if others don’t believe in you. This road will be hard, but let love guide you forward. I wish I had truly realized the importance of “patience”: talent alone is not enough, and any achievement does not happen overnight. You have to work hard, stay committed, and always stay true to yourself.
Do you have any little secret habits or rituals before a game?
I don’t really have any set rituals. I’m a more casual person, I follow my instincts more and it’s as natural and relaxed as just playing a game of five-a-side with my friends.
Finally, what are your plans for the next year? Can you give us a little spoiler ahead of time?
I want to continue to improve myself and further establish myself at the club while contributing more to the national team. There are a lot of big goals ahead and I’m focused on becoming more well-rounded. We can’t say much about the details yet, but what we can reveal is that there will be some new developments that are worth looking forward to!
