Orlando Pride

The Queen of Orlando: Marta honored after becoming first player to make 100 appearances for Orlando Pride

ORLANDO, Fla. -- The history of Orlando Pride is a short, albeit full one.

Notable players have come and gone through the years, including former FIFA Women's World Cup champions, stars for their respective national teams and up-and-coming players making their way in the professional game.

None, however, have shown the same longevity and commitment to the Orlando Pride as the greatest player of all-time, Marta.

Since joining the club just before the 2017 season, the GOAT has gone through plenty of ups and downs during her tenure in purple, but she has remained committed to the club and to the City of Orlando.

So it was a fitting moment when she stepped up on Sunday night to score the game-winning penalty on the last day of the season for the team she has called her own over the last seven seasons.

MarkThor-PridevHoustonDash-101523-OCOP7296

While it should have been enough to get the team into the playoffs, other results around the NWSL didn't go the Pride's way on the day, making for some very mixed emotions after the final whistle blew.

As the team consoled each other, knowing that its season had come to an end, the players came together to take in a moment and celebrate their captain.

In the team's match against Angel City FC a week ago, Marta became the first-ever player in Pride history to appear in 100 matches across all competitions, a magnificent milestone for the Pride's leader on and off the pitch.

With Sunday's match being the first home game since that landmark, the team took a moment after the match to present Marta with a custom 100 jersey. It also allowed the captain to say a few words to the 8,504 fans who came out to support the Pride in the season finale.

"I'm so proud to be a part of this team and this community," Marta said on the verge of tears on Sunday night. "It's been seven years here, and I can't believe how good I feel to be here in Orlando. This has become my home, my family, and I appreciate everything. I live in this club and this community. Thank you for showing up every single game and giving us the support that we need. You guys are with us every game, and I hope to see you next year."

For Marta, it wasn't just about her and her moment. In her typical way, she turned to her teammates after speaking to the crowd to thank them for playing a part in getting her to the incredible milestone.

"I couldn't have done this without you," Marta said. "Now, let's play 100 more."