Born in the USA but raised in Montenegro, you have a unique football background. How has this shaped your approach to the game and contributed to your football identity?
Growing up American in Montenegro gave me a unique perspective. I combined the structured, disciplined approach often associated with American sports with the passion and creativity that Montenegrin football inspires. This mix has shaped my identity as both a player and a person, and has given me flexibility and adaptability on the field.
At only 16 years old, you have already made your mark on Budućnost. Can you share your journey to the club and what it was like to make the transition from youth football to playing at a senior level in Montenegro?
Joining Budućnost felt like a dream come true. I started kicking the ball as a child in Montenegro and, thanks to years of hard work and support from my family, earned my place in the team. The transition to senior football was difficult – requiring mental toughness, greater physical conditioning and a deeper understanding of the game. But with each match I got stronger and more confident and I appreciate the opportunity to represent a club with such history.
Was football always your main focus growing up or did you explore other sports before fully committing to it?
Football was my first love from the moment I could walk. I never seriously considered any other sport because football always felt like my calling. It has given me a sense of freedom, discipline and joy that nothing else can match.
As a winger and striker, you are directly involved in your team's attacking play. How would you describe your playing style and what qualities distinguish you in these positions?
My playing style is dynamic and aggressive. I manage to create opportunities around the target with my speed, dribbling and sharp instincts. What sets me apart from others is my ability to adapt. Whether it's cutting down defenders with precision or making split-second decisions to support my team. I'm always looking for ways to maximize my impact on the field.
You are known for your pace and dribbling ability and you scored an incredible 42 goals in the Budućnost Championship in the 2023/24 season. How do you maintain such a high level of performance and what drives you to constantly find networks?
Scoring 42 goals in a single season is something I'm incredibly proud of, but first and foremost it's a team achievement. Every goal I scored came from the hard work, support and trust of my teammates. Football is never about one player and I am lucky to be surrounded by such talented and dedicated players. Personally, I maintain my performance by focusing on continuous improvement, disciplined training, and my deep passion for the game. Helping my team succeed is always my biggest motivation.
What goes through your mind when you're faced with one-on-one situations against defenders? How do you decide whether to take them or pass?
In those moments, I focus on reading and positioning the defender's body language. If I see a chance to exploit space, I will attack with confidence. However, if a teammate is in a better position, I won't hesitate to pass - it's all about making the smartest decision for the team.
Budućnost has a rich football tradition. What was the most rewarding part of playing for the club and how did it help you grow as a player?
It is an honor to represent Budućnost because the club carries a lot of pride and history. The most rewarding part is the connection with the fans and the responsibility to uphold the club's values. This pushed me to develop not only as a player, but as a leader and ambassador of women's football in Montenegro.
What does it mean to you to represent your country as a Montenegrin national team player and how do you prepare for international matches?
Representing Montenegro is a privilege beyond words. It's an opportunity to showcase our talent and spirit on an international stage. Preparation includes not only physical training but also mental focus. I study our competitors, work to improve my skills, and make sure I always do my best to honor my country.
Looking ahead, do you have any aspirations of playing for bigger leagues or clubs in Europe or beyond? Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
Definitely. I aspire to play for the biggest clubs in Europe and Barcelona is my ultimate dream. I also admire the passion and energy of leagues like the Turkish Super League. Over the next few years I see myself competing at the highest level, representing the best clubs and making my mark in major tournaments.
What advice would you give to young girls who dream of becoming professional football players?
Believe in yourself and your dreams, no matter how distant they seem. Work hard, be patient, and embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and trust the journey—it's worth it.
D.M., your manager. Can you tell us a little about your management, how has their support affected your career so far?
D.M. Management has been the cornerstone of my career. Their guidance and care goes beyond football – they have helped me grow as a person and player. Knowing that I have an agency with a full team of experts who believe in me and support my ambitions gives me the confidence to aim higher and push myself every day.
You and Maša Tomašević are the best duo in Europe right now, scoring an incredible 67 goals together this season. How much credit does your coach deserve for your success?
Our coach Duško Globarević plays a big role in our success. He spends a lot of time and energy developing our individual skills and our partnership on the field. His attacking philosophy and attacking style allows us the freedom to express ourselves and take risks in the final third, which is key to us scoring goals. Beyond tactics, his belief in us as players increased our confidence and motivated us to do our best in every match. This success is his success as much as it is ours.
