Aitana Bonmatí, a player for Women's Barça, continues to write her name in the history books of soccer. The Creu de Sant Jordi is one of Catalonia's most prestigious awards. Her recent recognition places her alongside great legends like Leo Messi and Alexia Putellas. This award, granted by the Generalitat, celebrates not only Aitana's sports achievements but also her influence on Catalonia's cultural identity.
The Creu De Sant Jordi: A Historic Recognition
Last Monday, Aitana Bonmatí received the Creu de Sant Jordi in a ceremony held at the National Theater of Catalonia. This distinction, created in 1981, acknowledges those who have significantly contributed to the culture, sports, and identity of Catalonia.
Aitana, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, thus joins a select list that includes names like Johan Cruyff, Leo Messi, and Alexia Putellas.
A Catalonian Pride
Aitana Bonmatí expressed her emotion and pride upon receiving this award. In her speech, she highlighted her deep sense of belonging to Catalonia.
"For me, it's an honor to be here, receiving this important award. Those who know me know that I've always had a sense of belonging to our land, Catalonia, and its language. That's why it's very exciting," the player commented.
This award not only values her soccer career but also her connection to Catalan culture. Aitana has emphasized on various occasions that her love for Catalonia and its language, Catalan, is one of the foundations of her identity. In her words, this award also recognizes the achievements of female soccer players who, like her, are breaking barriers in the sport.
A Role Model for Women's Soccer
Aitana Bonmatí hasn't only excelled in Women's Barça but has also become a role model for young female soccer players. Her ability to stand out internationally has contributed to the visibility of women's soccer, a sport that continues to gain ground. Like her teammate Alexia Putellas, Aitana is an example of effort, dedication, and success.
The Barça player also took the opportunity to emphasize the special significance of playing for the club of her life, FC Barcelona. "It would be hard for me to understand Barça without Catalonia and Catalonia without Barça," she stated, reflecting the close relationship between the two.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
The Creu de Sant Jordi recognizes Aitana Bonmatí's achievements, showing that women's soccer reaches the same excellence as men's. Like Messi and Alexia Putellas, Aitana is already part of the history of Catalan sports. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soccer players.