Merel Van Dongen was born on November 2, 1993, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. She discovered her love for soccer at a young age and began playing for local clubs in her hometown.
Van Dongen's professional career began when she started playing for Ter Leede and ADO Den Haag in the Netherlands. She quickly gained recognition for her exceptional skills on the field and caught the eye of scouts from the United States.
In 2012, Van Dongen made the bold decision to move to the US and play for the Alabama Crimson Tide. During her time at Alabama, she made a significant impact on the team, becoming the single-season assists leader in 2014 with 10 assists.
After her successful stint in the US, Van Dongen returned to Europe and signed with Spanish Primera División club Atlético Madrid. She also earned a spot on the Netherlands women's national team, where she continues to showcase her talent and passion for the sport.
Van Dongen was selected to represent the Netherlands at the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup. As a key player on the Dutch squad, she performed impressively and helped her team secure notable victories throughout the tournament.
Off the field, Van Dongen has become a social media sensation with her popular Instagram account, merel23. With over 100,000 followers, she shares glimpses of her life as a professional soccer player, often posting photos of herself with her teammates.
Despite her busy schedule as a professional athlete, Van Dongen makes time for her personal life. She is engaged to Ana Romero, and the couple shares a deep bond that supports Van Dongen in her career and personal endeavors.
Merel Van Dongen's journey from a young soccer enthusiast in Amsterdam to a respected defender for Atlético Madrid and the Netherlands women's national team is a testament to her dedication and talent. She continues to inspire fans around the world with her passion for the sport and commitment to excellence.
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