How Old Is Karen Carney The Full Story of a Football Legend Turned Media Star

Karen Carney, the renowned English former professional footballer and current sports journalist, turns 38 years old as of 2026. She celebrates her birthday on August 1, having been born in 1987. Multiple reliable sources, including her Wikipedia profile (updated as of early 2026), Famous Birthdays, ESPN, FBref, and recent media coverage from outlets like the Daily Mail and Radio Times during her 2025 Strictly Come Dancing appearance, consistently confirm her birth date as August 1, 1987. This places her at age 38 throughout most of 2025 and into early 2026 (before her birthday in August 2026, when she will turn 39).

Her age reflects a remarkable journey: she debuted professionally at just 14, achieved global recognition in her 20s and 30s, retired at 31 in 2019, and now thrives in broadcasting and public life at 38.

Karen Carney stands out as one of England’s most respected figures in women’s football. Fans, sports enthusiasts, and casual viewers often search for her age because she balances an incredible playing career with a high-profile second act in media. People want the latest facts—especially since her recent visibility on shows like Strictly Come Dancing keeps her in the spotlight.

In this detailed guide, we explore exactly how old Karen Carney is right now, dive deep into her life story, trace her rise through football, highlight her achievements, discuss her transition to punditry and beyond, and share insights from her personal challenges and triumphs. We base every detail on verified sources and up-to-date information as of January 2026.

Whether you follow the Women’s Super League, admire Lionesses history, or simply enjoy inspiring stories of resilience, this article delivers everything you need to know.

Who Is Karen Carney? A Quick Overview

Karen Julia Carney OBE shines as a former professional footballer who dazzled as a winger and midfielder. She earned 144 caps for England—making her one of the most capped Lionesses ever—and represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics.

She played for top clubs like Birmingham City (her hometown team), Arsenal (where she won major trophies), Chicago Red Stars in the US, and Chelsea (where she lifted the FA Women’s Cup as captain).

After retiring in 2019, Karen quickly became a leading voice in sports broadcasting. She comments on TNT Sports, Sky Sports, ITV, and Amazon Prime—covering both women’s and men’s football. Her expertise, honesty, and warmth make her a fan favorite.

In late 2025, she captivated audiences by competing (and succeeding impressively) on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, where she spoke openly about personal growth, teamwork, and life after football.

Current age highlight: At 38, Karen remains energetic, influential, and deeply connected to the game she loves.

Early Life and Rise to Stardom

Karen Carney enters the world on August 1, 1987, in Solihull, near Birmingham, England. She grows up in a football-loving environment and falls in love with the sport around age 6 or 7.

She joins Birmingham City Ladies at age 11. Remarkably, she makes her first-team debut at just 14 in the FA Women’s Premier League National Division—facing Fulham Ladies and showing fearless skill.

This early breakthrough catches attention. By 13, she already attends England trials. Her talent explodes further when she scores on her senior England debut in 2005—the same year she wins her first FA Young Player of the Year award at age 17.

She claims the same award again in 2006, proving her consistency despite club challenges like financial issues at Birmingham.

Transitioning smoothly, Karen moves to Arsenal in 2006. There, she experiences massive success and collects silverware that defines her early career.

Professional Club Career Highlights

Carney launched her senior club journey with Birmingham City, where she racked up trophies and personal accolades. She then moved to Arsenal, contributing to multiple Women’s Super League titles and FA Cups with her precise crosses and midfield control. In 2009, she ventured abroad to the Chicago Red Stars in the WPS, adapting quickly to American soccer’s pace and physicality, which sharpened her versatility.​

Returning to Birmingham City, Carney captained the team to glory, including the 2012 FA Women’s Cup triumph. Chelsea signed her in December 2015, and she stayed until her 2019 retirement, adding four more major trophies to her cabinet. Throughout, she scored over 50 club goals, created countless more, and mentored younger players, passing on her winning mindset. Opponents respected her intelligence on the pitch; she read defenses like a book, always one step ahead.

Carney’s club stats impress: consistent appearances, high assist rates, and clutch performances in finals. She thrived under pressure, delivering in derbies against rivals like Arsenal. This phase cemented her as one of England’s most decorated players, with a trophy haul that few match.​

International Achievements with England

England handed Carney her senior debut in 2005, and she grabbed it with both feet, earning 144 caps by retirement—third-most in Lionesses history. She featured in four World Cups (2007, 2011, 2015, 2019) and four European Championships, plus the 2012 London Olympics. Carney scored 32 international goals, including memorable strikes against Germany and France.​

Hope Powell, then-England manager, praised Carney’s vision and work rate, starting her in major tournaments. She shone at Euro 2009, helping reach the final, though the Netherlands edged them. Injuries tested her, yet she bounced back stronger, key in qualifying campaigns. The 2012 Olympics marked a pinnacle; Carney dazzled in front of home crowds, showcasing pinpoint passes.​

By 2017, under Mark Sampson, Carney adapted to new tactics, anchoring midfield. She retired post-2019 World Cup semi-final run, leaving boots that inspired a generation. Her international legacy endures—stats, silverware, and the barrier-breaking presence she brought to women’s football.​

Retirement and Media Career Explosion

Carney hung up her boots in 2019 at 32, citing physical toll and a desire for new challenges. She pivoted to broadcasting seamlessly, becoming a regular on Sky Sports, Amazon Prime, TNT Sports, and ITV, covering Women’s Super League and men’s Premier League matches. Her analysis cuts deep; she breaks down tactics with ex-player insight that viewers crave.

BBC Sport, BBC Radio 5 Live, The Guardian, and BBC Television snapped her up as a columnist and pundit. Carney made history in 2023 as part of the first all-female panel for a men’s FA Cup match. She produced an ITV documentary on English football’s state, blending her expertise with storytelling flair. Fans and peers laud her authenticity—no sugarcoating, just sharp, honest takes.

In 2025, Carney dazzled on Strictly Come Dancing, scoring perfect 10s and reaching late weeks with partner Carlos Gu. Her Week 9 and 10 performances hit 39 and 44 points, captivating audiences with charisma. This boosted her profile further, proving her adaptability beyond football.​

Personal Life and Lifestyle Choices

Carney stands 5’4″ tall, weighs around 121 lbs, and follows a vegan diet that boosts her energy and mental clarity. She stays fit through rigorous workouts, crediting plant-based eating for sharper recovery post-retirement. Off-field, she advocates for women’s sports equality, using her platform to push for investment and visibility.

Solihull roots run deep; Carney returns often, supporting local academies. She keeps Instagram (@kazcarney) lively with career updates and personal glimpses, amassing followers who admire her candor. Carney received an MBE for services to football, later upgraded to OBE, recognizing her impact. Controversies arose, like a 2025 FA fine for an ‘abusive’ exchange, but she owned it publicly.

Age Breakdown: How Old is Karen Carney Today?

Born August 1, 1987, Karen Carney hit 38 in 2025. As of January 22, 2026, she remains 38, turning 39 on her birthday this year. This makes her a prime example of athletes thriving into their late 30s via smart career shifts. Compare her to peers: contemporaries like those born in 1987 fill football and media, but Carney’s dual success stands out.

Calculate precisely: From 1987 to 2026 spans 39 years, minus the pre-birthday months in 2026 keeps her at 38 currently. Her age fuels discussions on longevity in sports punditry—she brings wisdom without losing edge.​

Legacy and Influence on Women’s Football

Carney paved paths for youngsters, proving women belong at football’s top table. She broke into male-heavy commentary booths, normalizing female voices in Premier League coverage. Academies now teach her techniques; her story motivates girls in Solihull and beyond.​

She influences policy too, lobbying for better WSL funding. Carney’s vegan advocacy inspires athletes to optimize health naturally. Her Strictly stint showed footballers’ entertainment range, drawing new fans to the sport. Future stars cite her as role model—third-most capped Lioness, media mogul, all before 40.​

Recent News and 2026 Updates

In late 2025, Carney’s Strictly run dominated headlines, with perfect scores and fan threads on Reddit buzzing. She continues TNT/ITV punditry, dissecting matches with authority. No major 2026 announcements yet, but expect more documentaries and columns as women’s football booms.

FA ban stories resurfaced pre-Strictly, but Carney focused forward, winning public sympathy. Her OBE status underscores respect from football bodies.

FAQs

1. How old is Karen Carney right now in January 2026?

Karen Carney, born August 1, 1987, stands at 38 years old as of January 22, 2026. She celebrates her 39th birthday later this year, maintaining peak fitness through vegan living and media demands. This age positions her perfectly for insightful punditry, drawing from decades of elite experience.

2. When did Karen Carney celebrate her 38th birthday?

Karen Carney turned 38 on August 1, 2025. That milestone came amid her Strictly Come Dancing buzz, where she scored highs like 44 points in Week 10. Fans marked it with social media tributes, highlighting her football-to-TV transition.

3. What is Karen Carney’s exact date of birth and birthplace?

Authorities confirm Karen Carney’s birth on August 1, 1987, in Solihull, Warwickshire, England. This West Midlands start fueled her Birmingham City youth rise. Profiles consistently list these details across bio sites and club records.

4. How does Karen Carney’s age compare to other England football legends?

Savannah Bananas At 38, Carney outlasts many peers; she ranks among 1987-born athletes like Fleur East, but her 144 caps exceed most. Younger Lionesses like Lauren Hemp (born 2000) credit her mentorship. Carney’s post-retirement media pivot keeps her relevant longer.

5. Did Karen Carney’s age affect her Strictly Come Dancing 2025 performance?

Age never hindered Carney at 38; she nailed Tango, Samba, and perfect-scoring routines, peaking at Week 10’s 44. Judges praised her athleticism from football days. Partner Carlos Gu amplified her strengths, proving 38 brings grace under lights.​

6. Will Karen Carney turn 40 in 2026 or 2027?

Unlocking the Triple Lock Karen Carney turns 39 in 2026 on August 1, hitting 40 in 2027. Current 2026 clocks her at 38 until summer. This timeline aligns with plans for more broadcasting, leveraging her prime-age expertise.

7. How has Karen Carney’s vegan diet impacted her at age 38?

Carney swears by veganism for better physical and mental health at 38, aiding recovery and sharpness. It powers her pundit stamina and Strictly dances. She shares recipes online, inspiring fans to adopt for longevity.​

8. What height and weight does 38-year-old Karen Carney maintain?

Karen Carney measures 5’4″ and weighs 121 lbs at 38, stats from her playing days. Vegan discipline and workouts keep her competition-ready. These vitals underscore her elite athlete maintenance post-retirement.

9. Has Karen Carney received awards reflecting her age and career?

Tesco Christmas Opening Hours Yes, Carney earned MBE then OBE for football services, awarded in her 30s. FA Young Player nods came at 18-19. At 38, her Strictly acclaim adds cultural honors.

10. What does the future hold for Karen Carney approaching 39?

Carney eyes more ITV/TNT gigs, documentaries, and advocacy at 39. Her age brings authority to calls for women’s football growth. Expect columns, podcasts, and perhaps coaching—her energy shows no slowdown.

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