Exclusive: Kealia Watt attributes her smooth transition from playing career to Burnley ownership.

Kealia Watt, the partner of NFL icon and minority owner of Burnley, J.J. Watt, has opened up about her transition from playing football to her involvement with Burnley FC. Watt, who played in the NWSL in the United States, retired from professional football in 2021 after marrying J.J. Watt and giving birth to their first child. The couple then acquired a minority stake in Burnley.

In an interview with TNT Sports, Watt spoke about how being involved with Burnley has provided her with a sense of competition and excitement that she missed from her playing career. She expressed her enthusiasm for attending Burnley’s upcoming matches and her desire for the team to succeed.

Watt also discussed the challenges of transitioning from a playing career and finding a new purpose. She emphasized the importance of having a supportive partner and expressed her love for being a part of Burnley.

Former England and Everton goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finnis, who was born and raised in Burnley, also joined the conversation. Brown-Finnis, who retired from professional football in 2015, spoke about missing the pressure and buzz of playing and how her current role as a football pundit allows her to continue performing in a different way.

The discussion also touched on the rise of women’s football in the UK. Both Watt and Brown-Finnis acknowledged that the UK has caught up with the US in terms of accepting and promoting women’s football. They highlighted the increased investment, sponsorship, and rising standards in the women’s game.

Watt praised the support and opportunities now available for female athletes who want to have a family while continuing their playing careers. She expressed her admiration for women who are able to balance raising children, playing a sport, and being professional athletes.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Watt and Brown-Finnis shared their hopes for the future of women’s football. They expressed their desire for continued growth, inclusivity, and the presence of strong role models in the sport.

Overall, the interview highlighted the personal experiences and perspectives of Kealia Watt and Rachel Brown-Finnis, shedding light on the challenges and successes of women in football and the positive developments in the sport.