Comparing the arrival of Marta in Los Angeles with the coming of David Beckham two years ago is too difficult for Martin Rogers to resist, as “one of the world’s highest-profile players moves from a European league to Los Angeles in an attempt to ignite interest in American soccer.” The importance of her signing to the league’s survival can’t be played down.
Women’s Professional Soccer “is expecting far greater things from its signature import than the limited on-field impact Beckham has managed” so far with the Galaxy. “With the challenges WPS faces in making a splash in a tough market, signing the Brazilian was a critical step,” says Rogers, because Marta’s “brilliance is unparalleled in women’s soccer. Her level of skill is beyond compare, with tricks most of her opponents can’t even imagine, let alone attempt.”
As Marta will be joined at the Los Angeles Sol by U.S. national team players Shannon Boxx, Stephanie Cox and Aly Wagner, “it is hard to see the Sol failing,” and if Marta is “anywhere near her peak, she should be too much for most WPS defenses to handle.” Her signing “was critical in lending the ultimate stamp of authenticity to the WPS product.”
WPS Commissioner Tonya Antonucci is in no doubt about the 22-year-old’s role: “We have got a young player in her prime. It is not just her level of play, but the exciting and flamboyant style which we hope will attract fans and keep them coming back.” She says no one is immune to the recession, but, “I really believe we are a good cut-price option. Families can come and watch some top-quality entertainment, and it won’t hit them too hard.”