Mengwen Li has played on some of football’s biggest stages – the Olympics, the World Cup and the Women’s Super League. But behind every appearance in red for China or for top European clubs like PSG, Brighton and West Ham, is a story of persistence and self-belief.
A champion of the 2022 Asian Cup and a player who’s represented her country around the world, Mengwen has built her career on the values she lives by: consistency, resilience and quiet strength.
Finding Her Way to Football
When Mengwen first joined a football team, it wasn’t part of some grand plan. ‘When I was in the fourth grade, I was a track and field athlete. I was selected by the football coach to join the team simply because I wanted to play with my friends and have fun.’
What began as a way to spend more time outside quickly became something far greater. Over time, that early curiosity turned into purpose – a drive that would lead her across continents. ‘I never imagined football would become my life, but it gave me direction and a sense of identity.’
We face challenges such as the limited market for women’s competitions, a lack of promotion and low public attention.
Moments That Defined a Career
Mengwen’s journey reads like a timeline of modern women’s football. She represented China at the Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 World Cup in Australia. She helped secure the 2022 Asian Cup title and finished runner-up in both the 2018 Asian Games and the French Cup while playing for PSG.
Her domestic success has been just as impressive. ‘In 2019, we won everything, the Super League, the FA Cup, the Football League and the Super Cup,’ she says with pride. Those victories are matched by her two National Games golds in 2014, 2021 and a bronze medal in 2017 – achievements that mark her as one of the most decorated players of her generation.
Navigating Challenges and Finding Her Voice
As a woman in football, Mengwen has seen first-hand the barriers that still exist. ‘We face challenges such as the limited market for women’s competitions, a lack of promotion and low public attention,’ she explains.
Recognition often only comes with big results – a gold medal, a World Cup appearance, a headline victory. That pressure to perform is immense, but Mengwen and her teammates are determined to keep pushing the game forward. ‘We work to raise our level, increase the intensity of matches and share our daily lives to attract more women into sport.’
Her words reflect a quiet determination, a belief that progress is not only about winning but also about visibility and representation.
Lessons from Playing Abroad
Joining clubs across Europe has brought new challenges and fresh lessons. Playing in the Women’s Super League, Mengwen has learned how much adaptation matters, on and off the pitch.
‘As a Chinese player, joining a club with advanced football philosophies means earning trust from the coach, teammates, and fans,’ she says. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the constant rotation of staff and players add to the pressure.
Still, she embraces it. ‘The club provides psychological counselling, specialist coaching, and opportunities to learn about how the organisation operates. It’s helped me grow as both a player and a person.’
I believe in the power of consistency and dedication, having a winning mentality, no matter how strong the opponent is, is essential. Be fearless.
A Vision for Women’s Sport
Mengwen’s hopes for the future of women’s sport are rooted in equality and opportunity. She wants to see more women in leadership in coaching, management, and representation. ‘I look forward to seeing more female coaches, managers, agents and leaders, not only in women’s sports but across every field.’
She also believes women can become more assertive in advocating for themselves and their teams. ‘Women need to learn to actively seek benefits for themselves and their clubs through courage and experience.’
It’s a message of self-belief, one that reflects her own career path from a small-town girl in China to a global professional athlete.
The Mindset That Moves Her
For Mengwen, success is built on self-discipline and focus. ‘I believe in the power of consistency and dedication,’ she says. ‘Having a winning mentality, no matter how strong the opponent is, is essential. Be fearless.’
She describes herself as a lifelong learner, constantly seeking inspiration from others. from international players to her former teammate and mentor, Shirley Cruz. ‘Her professionalism and attention to recovery and preparation taught me what longevity in sport really means.’
More than anything, Mengwen values humility. ‘Stay grounded and don’t compare yourself to others, only to who you were yesterday. That’s how happiness grows.’
Conclusion: A Champion’s Perspective
From her beginnings as a track athlete in China to the bright lights of the World Cup, Mengwen Li’s story is one of quiet strength. She represents a generation of athletes redefining what it means to lead in women’s sport, not just by winning medals but by inspiring others to take part.
‘To every young woman dreaming of a career in sport, my advice is simple,’ she says. ‘Take care of your body and mind, keep your hunger, and stay true to your purpose.’
Her words capture the essence of She Moves The Game: women carving their path, creating their future, and transforming sport from the inside out.
Women like Mengwen are the voices changing the game – on and off the field.
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Jess Reus
I am a food-loving, dog-appreciating, hockey player.
My most memorable sporting moment is…
Full on face planting on the Spine Ramp at FISE Montpellier in front of a crowd of 6,000 people and a load of professional Skateboarders...
I am happiest when …
I have food in my mouth.
The sports person that best represents me is …
Kate Richardson-Walsh.
The three things at the top of my bucket list are …
1. Travel around China and Japan
2. Meet Trixie Mattel
3. Learn a second language
A quote I live my life by is …
“They say I'm the Hottest MC in the Game. If you label me that, I will live up to it. Trust me.” – Lil Wayne.
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