Jess Carter Biography
Jess Carter is a renowned English professional footballer famous for her role as a centre-back for Gotham FC in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and as a key player for the England national team. She first gained prominence starting at Birmingham City and has since achieved significant success, including multiple league titles and cup victories with Chelsea, as well as international honors with England, such as winning the European Championship and reaching the World Cup final. Known for her versatility in defense and midfield, Carter is celebrated for her resilience on and off the field, making her one of England’s standout defenders.
Childhood
Jessica Leigh Carter was born on 27 October 1997 in Warwick, England. She grew up in a supportive family environment with her British mother and African American father, which grants her dual British and American citizenship. Jess is the youngest of four siblings, growing up alongside two brothers and a sister. From a young age, she exhibited a strong passion for football, captaining her youth team, Warwick Juniors, to a County Cup championship. Her early upbringing reflected a strong family backing and encouragement toward her aspirations in the sport.
Education
Growing up in Warwickshire, Jess balanced her academic education with her developing football career. She attended local schools while actively participating in football training and youth academies. Jess's parents invested in her future by enrolling her in a specialized sports academy that fostered her talent while ensuring she maintained schooling commitments. This combination of athletic and academic training laid the foundation for her professional success as she tirelessly pursued her dream of football excellence.
Career
Jess Carter began her football career in the Birmingham City Academy at the age of 15 and made her senior debut in 2014 at just 16 years old during a UEFA Women's Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal, where she was named Player of the Match. In 2018, she transferred to Chelsea, where despite initial challenges, she grew into a key defender, contributing to multiple domestic trebles including league titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. In 2024, she signed with Gotham FC in the NWSL, helping them win the 2025 CONCACAF W Champions Cup. Internationally, Jess has represented England from under-19 to under-23 levels before debuting for the senior team in 2017. She played a vital role in England's victories at the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 and the Arnold Clark Cup and was a starter in the 2023 World Cup, where England reached the final.
Family Life
Jess Carter comes from a close-knit family that has always supported her football career. She is the youngest child of her parents and has two brothers and a sister. In her personal life, Jess has been open about her relationship with Ann-Katrin Berger, a fellow footballer. The couple's relationship is well-known and celebrated within the football community. Despite her busy career, Jess maintains strong bonds with her family, who have been instrumental in her journey both emotionally and practically.
Achievements
Jess Carter's achievements in football are extensive. She was awarded the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2017 and has been included in the PFA WSL Team of the Year. With Chelsea, she has won multiple Women’s Super League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups, and reached the UEFA Champions League final in 2021. Internationally, she has won two European Championships with England, added a Finalissima trophy, and was part of the squad that reached the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final. Her club and international successes highlight her as one of the top defenders in women’s football today.
Controversies
Throughout her career, Jess Carter has faced challenges, particularly in dealing with online racist abuse, which affected her mental health and led her to temporarily step back from social media in 2025. Despite this negativity, she has shown great resilience and used her platform to raise awareness about discrimination in sports and mental well-being. There have been no significant professional controversies associated with her character or conduct on or off the pitch.
Jess Carter Summary
Jess Carter stands out as a talented and resilient English footballer whose career highlights include success at club and international levels. Born in Warwick to a supportive and loving family, she balanced education with a commitment to football from an early age. Her professional journey took her from Birmingham City to Chelsea, and then to Gotham FC in the U.S., earning multiple titles along the way. Off the pitch, she is recognized for her strong family ties, her relationship with Ann-Katrin Berger, and her courageous response to online abuse. Jess Carter continues to inspire many as a top defender and role model in women's football.