Anita Asante is one of the most respected and inspirational figures in British sport. Known for her exceptional football career, her intellectual depth, her leadership on and off the pitch, and her commitment to equality, Anita has shaped modern women’s football in profound ways. With 71 England caps, a place in Team GB’s Olympic squad, and a career that has taken her across England, the USA and Sweden, she stands among the most accomplished defenders of her generation. Today, she continues to influence the game as a coach, broadcaster, pundit and respected public figure.

Beyond her career success, Anita’s story is one of resilience, multicultural identity, education, and passion. Her personal life, including her marriage to sports broadcaster Beth Fisher, reflects strength, love and representation for LGBTQ+ families in sport.

Who Is Anita Asante?

Anita Amma Ankyewah Asante is a British-Ghanaian football coach, former professional footballer, Olympian, broadcaster, and advocate. Born on 27 April 1985, she is 40 years old and originally from North West London. Her heritage blends British upbringing with Ghanaian roots, a cultural identity that has shaped her values and worldview.

Driven, articulate and principled, Anita is admired not only for her football achievements but also for her advocacy for racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, gender equity and inclusive sport. She continues to be a leading, respected voice in British sport.

Anita Asante Age and Origin

As of 2025, Anita Asante is 40 years old, having been born on 27 April 1985. Throughout her career, she has carried herself with maturity, professionalism and deep insight, qualities that have only strengthened with age.

Where Is Anita Asante From?

Anita was born in London, United Kingdom, to Ghanaian parents. Her multicultural background is a central part of her identity. She proudly represents:

• British nationality

• Ghanaian heritage

This dual identity has helped her advocate for diversity, representation and visibility across sport and media.

Anita Asante Partner and Wife: Her Life with Beth Fisher

One of the most celebrated parts of Anita’s life is her partnership with Welsh sports broadcaster Beth Fisher. Their relationship is widely admired for its authenticity and strength.

Anita Asante and Beth Fisher: Marriage

Anita and Beth married on 20 January 2023, sharing their joy publicly and proudly. Their marriage symbolises love, respect and shared purpose. Both women work in sport and media, giving them a deep understanding of each other’s careers and pressures.

Children and Family Life

Anita and Beth welcomed their first child, Gigi Elizabeth Akua Asante-Fisher, on 28 June 2023. Their daughter was conceived through Reciprocal IVF, using Anita’s eggs while Beth carried the pregnancy.

Together, they form a warm, modern and visible LGBTQ+ family living in Penarth, Wales. Their openness about their journey has inspired many, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.

Anita Asante Education: The Academic Behind the Athlete

Anita is not only an accomplished athlete but also a highly educated woman. Her academic foundation has informed her worldview, advocacy and leadership.

Bachelor’s Degree

• Brunel University London

• BA in Politics and English (2004–2008)

Her interest in politics reflects her commitment to understanding systems, social issues and inequalities.

Master’s Degree (MRes)

• MRes in Women’s Participation in Football: Political Perspective (2008–2009)

This postgraduate research highlights Anita’s intellectual engagement with issues of gender, representation and sport governance. She is one of the few elite footballers with such a deep academic background.

Anita Asante Football Career: A 19-Year Legacy

Early Beginnings at Arsenal

Anita began her senior career with Arsenal Women, joining their setup in 1998. She quickly rose through the ranks and became part of the team’s golden era.

The Historic 2007 Quadruple

At Arsenal, Anita won the UEFA Women’s Cup, the FA Women’s Premier League, the FA Cup, and the League Cup in a single season—an achievement unmatched by any English women’s team since. This cemented her place in football history.

Career in the USA

Anita spent three years playing in the United States for clubs including:

• Sky Blue FC

• Saint Louis Athletica

• Chicago Red Stars

• Washington Freedom

A memorable highlight of her career was being invited to the White House by President Barack Obama after winning a US league title with Sky Blue.

Career in Sweden

Anita later moved to Sweden, playing for:

• Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC

• FC Rosengård

She spent six seasons in Sweden, winning league titles and gaining international recognition.

Return to England

Anita returned to the English league in 2018, playing for:

• Chelsea Women

• Aston Villa Women

She officially retired in 2022, concluding a remarkable 19-year playing career.

After retirement, Anita’s influence continued to grow.

International Career: Anita Asante and the Lionesses

• 71 caps for the England Women’s National Team

• Represented England in five major tournaments

• Selected for Team GB at the 2012 London Olympics

Her international career is one of longevity, consistency and leadership. She was inducted into the WSL Hall of Fame in 2023, honouring her impact on English football.

Anita Asante Career After Retirement

Broadcasting and Punditry

Since 2022, Anita has become a respected broadcaster and pundit across major platforms, including:

• BBC Sport

• TNT Sports

• Disney+

Her calm, insightful analysis has made her a valued voice in football coverage.

Coaching Career

Anita has moved into coaching, using her experience to support the next generation:

• First-team Coach at Bristol City Women (2022–2023)

• Technical Coach for England Women U23s (2023–2025)

Under her coaching, Bristol City won the FA Championship title and earned promotion to the Women’s Super League.

Anita Asante as an Advocate and Leader

Anita is also a strong advocate for:

• Racial equality

• LGBTQ+ rights

• Gender equality in sport

• Visibility for minority communities

She is an ambassador for Amnesty International UK and a supporter of Show Racism the Red Card. Her influence extends far beyond the pitch.

Quick Info

Conclusion

Anita Asante is far more than a former footballer. She is a symbol of excellence, representation, leadership and compassion. From winning European titles to educating future generations, from standing on Olympic stages to speaking for equality, she has shaped football and society alike.

Her life with Beth Fisher and their daughter Gigi further reflects the love, purpose and authenticity that define her journey. With her continued work in coaching, broadcasting and advocacy, Anita Asante remains one of the most influential figures in women’s sport today.

FAQs

1. How old is Anita Asante?

Anita Asante was born on 27 April 1985, making her 40 years old as of 2025. She remains an influential figure in football through coaching, broadcasting and advocacy.

2. Who is Anita Asante’s partner?

Anita Asante is married to Beth Fisher, a Welsh sports reporter and former international hockey player. The couple married in January 2023 and openly share their life as an LGBTQ+ family.

3. Does Anita Asante have any children?

Yes. Anita Asante and her wife, Beth Fisher, have a daughter named Gigi Elizabeth Akua Asante-Fisher, born on 28 June 2023. Their daughter was conceived through Reciprocal IVF.

4. What teams did Anita Asante play for during her football career?

During her 19-year professional career, Anita Asante played for top clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, FC Rosengård, Göteborg, and several teams in the USA such as Sky Blue FC. She earned 71 caps for England and played for Team GB at the 2012 Olympics.

5. What does Anita Asante do now?

After retiring in 2022, Anita became a broadcaster and pundit for BBC Sport, TNT Sports and other media outlets. She also works in coaching, having served as first-team coach at Bristol City Women and as a technical coach for the England Women’s U23 team.

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