Melissa Reddy: Award-Winning Author, Senior Broadcast Journalist and Event Host
Melissa Reddy is a name that resonates strongly within the world of sports journalism. Over nearly two decades, she has built an exceptional reputation as a writer, broadcaster, interviewer, and event host. Her work has not only been defined by access to the biggest stories and personalities in football but also by her fearless approach to breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. From South Africa to the United Kingdom, her journey is a story of perseverance, talent, and the drive to create impact.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into her career path, achievements, age, personal life, relationships, and the qualities that have established her as a respected voice in sports media.
Early Life and Age
Melissa Reddy was born on 24 August 1986 in South Africa. Growing up, her passion for sports and storytelling was evident, and she channelled these into pursuing a career in journalism. By the age of 21, she had already embarked on her professional journey, demonstrating remarkable maturity and ambition. Now in her late thirties, she continues to be a trailblazer, adding new chapters to her accomplished career.
Breaking Barriers in Sports Media
First Steps into Journalism
Her initial foray into the media world came through an internship with Summit TV in South Africa. This early opportunity gave her the grounding to understand both the editorial and technical sides of broadcasting.
By 2007, she joined TEAMtalk Media, a Cape Town-based organisation where her skills quickly became apparent. Rising through the ranks, she became Head of Football in 2011, making history as the first woman to hold that position. She also became Deputy Editor at Kick Off magazine, another first for a woman in that role.
Expanding to the Global Stage
Her sharp insights and distinctive style soon attracted international attention. She began contributing to global outlets and became Liverpool correspondent for Goal, covering the club’s transformation under Jürgen Klopp.
Her career then took her to ESPN, where she worked as Senior Football Correspondent between 2017 and 2019. She delivered long-form interviews, in-depth features, and detailed coverage of the Premier League and Champions League.
Later, with Independent Media, she expanded her portfolio further by hosting podcasts such as Between the Lines and delivering on-location tournament reporting at Euro 2020.
Sky Sports and Global Recognition
In March 2022, Melissa joined Sky Sports as a Senior Reporter. This period marked some of the most high-profile work of her career. She focused on England’s biggest clubs—Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal—while also travelling to major tournaments like the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
At Sky, her work stood out for its mix of breaking news, authoritative analysis, and access to key figures in football. She was trusted not just to report but also to provide context, making her a valuable broadcaster.
Her tenure lasted until mid-2025, when Sky went through restructuring. She left the organisation but continued to freelance, broadening her scope beyond football to cover a wider range of sports and events.
Freelance Career and Event Hosting
Since June 2025, Melissa has worked as a freelance journalist, author, and event host. This phase reflects her versatility. With over 18 years of experience, she now balances broadcasting with writing, public speaking, and moderating events.
Her event hosting is particularly notable. She has a natural talent for connecting with audiences, making conversations feel personal and engaging, whether she is on stage at a major sports conference or leading an intimate interview with a player.
Author of Believe Us
A major highlight of Melissa Reddy’s career is her 2020 book Believe Us: How Jürgen Klopp Transformed Liverpool Into Title Winners. This work documented Liverpool’s journey from challengers to champions, providing behind-the-scenes insights into Klopp’s leadership.
The book was widely praised for its detail, storytelling, and access, cementing Melissa’s reputation as not just a reporter but also a respected author.
Style and Impact
Melissa Reddy’s style is rooted in authenticity. She asks tough questions without hesitation, but her interviews are delivered with empathy and understanding. This combination allows her to earn the trust of football’s biggest names, from managers to world-class players.
Her journalism is not limited to the pitch. She has frequently spoken out about the challenges faced by women in sports media, including issues of racism, sexism, and online abuse. Her willingness to address these topics has made her a role model for aspiring journalists.
Melissa Reddy Husband and Relationship
When it comes to Melissa Reddy’s personal life, she has largely kept it private. There is no reliable or public confirmation that she is married, nor has she publicly spoken about a husband.
Over the years, rumours have occasionally linked her romantically to football personalities, most notably Sadio Mané. However, these claims have never been substantiated and should be treated as speculation rather than fact.
At present, Melissa Reddy appears to be focused on her career, writing, and broadcasting work rather than making her relationships a public talking point.
Awards and Recognition
Melissa’s career has earned her numerous accolades. She is celebrated as an award-winning author and a respected senior journalist. More importantly, her recognition comes not just from awards but also from her consistent presence on high-profile platforms, her book’s success, and her impact as a visible woman of colour excelling in football journalism.
Experiences and Key Highlights
At a Glance
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TEAMtalk Media – Head of Football (2007–2011)
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Kick Off – Deputy Editor
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Goal – Liverpool Correspondent (2014–2019)
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ESPN – Senior Football Correspondent (2017–2019)
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Independent Media – Senior Football Correspondent (2019–2022)
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Sky Sports – Senior Reporter (2022–2025)
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Freelance – Broadcaster, author, and event host (2025–present)
Major Career Highlights
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Covered Liverpool’s journey to Premier League glory after 30 years.
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Reported at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
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Hosted podcasts tackling football’s biggest topics.
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Authored a highly regarded book on Klopp and Liverpool.
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Consistently interviewed world-class players and managers.
Conclusion
Melissa Reddy stands out as one of the most accomplished journalists in sports media today. From her beginnings in South Africa to her rise in the United Kingdom, she has consistently broken barriers and set new standards. Her career spans broadcasting, writing, and event hosting, showcasing her versatility and drive.
Her age reflects her experience—nearly two decades in the industry before 40 is an extraordinary achievement. While her personal life remains private, her professional journey is an open book of persistence and excellence.
As an award-winning author, senior broadcast journalist, and event host, Melissa Reddy has paved the way for future generations. Her story is not just about football—it is about resilience, impact, and making a difference in an industry that needs diverse voices more than ever.
