Arsenal breaks world record to sign Canadian star with Jamaican roots

The 20-year-old prodigy, already hailed as one of the brightest talents in the game, brings not only her electrifying skills to North London but also a rich cultural heritage tied to Jamaica — a key part of her inspiring journey to stardom. 

Born in Whitby, Ontario to father Sean, whose of Jamaican ancestry and Canadian mom Sulee Riquelme-Smith – whose biological father and mother are from Chile and Peru respectively –  Smith’s footballing flair is deeply influenced by her Caribbean and South American heritage. Her dad was among the many coaches who played an important role in her early development, as well as Woody Bailey, a former Reno FC player in Jamaica who now operates the Woody Bailey Soccer School in Mississauga.  The family’s strong ties to the island nation have kept Smith connected to her roots, which helped to shape her identity both on and off the pitch. 

Smith’s transfer to Arsenal marks a watershed moment for the women’s game, underscoring the growing investment and recognition of female athletes. The Gunners fought off competition from top European clubs to secure her signature, with Arsenal’s head coach Renee Slegers describing her as “an exciting young player”, while the club’s director of women’s football Clare Wheatley says she’s “one of the most talented young player in the game and has huge potential for further development”. 

Her time at Liverpool saw her develop into a clinical finisher and creative playmaker, earning plaudits for her speed, technical ability, and fearless attacking style, traits that have drawn comparisons to Jamaican-born football stars like Raheem Sterling. 

Smith’s success carries special significance for Jamaica, where women’s football has been growing steadily following the Reggae Girlz’s historic World Cup appearances. Young girls across the island now have another role model in Smith, who proudly represents her multicultural heritage. 

Speaking in her first interview as a Gunner, she said: “I’m super excited. I love to put on a show for our fans, especially just technically, the flair. I think everyone loves that and I think that makes the game really exciting.” 

As Smith prepares to don the Arsenal jersey, fans worldwide, especially in Canada and Jamaica, will be watching closely, eager to witness the next chapter of her remarkable story.