Milene Domingues – Former Player and Ambassador of Women’s Football at Corinthians Paulista
A former football player, sports commentator, and ambassador for women’s football at Corinthians Paulista, Milene is betting on a vibrant World Cup in North America and highlights Brazil’s strength.
Milene Domingues became globally known as the “Queen of Juggling,” a Guinness World Records holder with 55,197 ball touches. She also participated in the creation of the women’s team of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista and today advocates for the greater recognition of women’s football in Brazil. When it comes to the Brazilian national team, Milene believes in Brazil’s leading role. “I see the national team with great respect and hope. Brazil has talent, tradition, and a jersey that carries weight,” she says.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, promises to be a historic milestone by bringing together three countries to organize the world’s biggest football event. For the former player, sports commentator, and ambassador of women’s football at Corinthians Paulista, Milene Domingues, the tournament has everything it needs to unite cultures, expand the reach of the sport, and provide an unforgettable experience for fans.
Always optimistic when it comes to the Brazilian national team, Milene believes in Brazil’s leading role. “I see the national team with great respect and hope. Brazil has talent, tradition, and a jersey that carries weight,” she states. For her, more than strategy, the key differentiator lies in the players’ commitment and collective spirit.
She also praises the work of the Brazilian national team coach, Italian Carlo Ancelotti, highlighting his international experience and his ability to balance tactical discipline with the natural creativity of Brazilian players.
Among the favorites for the title, she mentions the national teams of France, Argentina, England, Germany, and Spain, emphasizing that confidence, unity, and players being in good form at their clubs make the difference in a competition of this scale.
Milene also highlights that the visibility of the men’s tournament can boost the growth of women’s football, a cause she closely follows as an ambassador of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista. “When there is investment, respect, and exposure, interest grows naturally,” she concludes.
With high expectations and a celebratory atmosphere, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be a global spectacle, both on and off the pitch. For the Canadian public, the event represents more than matches in modern stadiums: it is an opportunity to celebrate football in its multicultural dimension.
Interview with Milene Domingues
WAVE – What are your expectations and assessment of the Brazilian men’s national team that will compete in this year’s World Cup?
MILENE DOMINGUES – I always see the Brazilian national team with great respect and hope. Brazil has plenty of talent, a beautiful football history, and a jersey that carries weight. My expectation is that the players step onto the field with joy, unity, and love for the national team. When there is commitment, dedication, and team spirit, results tend to follow. I hope it’s a team that represents our people well, with determination, humility, and the will to win.
WAVE – How do you assess Carlo Ancelotti’s work as head coach of the national team, especially regarding the strategies used?
MILENE DOMINGUES – Ancelotti is an experienced, successful, and globally respected coach. He has a very balanced profile, knows how to handle great players, and understands the importance of the collective. I believe he aims to build a solid, organized team that also values the creativity of Brazilian players. I really like this blend of discipline and freedom.
WAVE – Which teams do you believe have the best chances of winning the 2026 World Cup, and what factors influence your opinion?
MILENE DOMINGUES – Besides Brazil, I see teams like France, Argentina, England, Germany, and Spain as always very strong. Nowadays, what makes the difference is having a balanced squad, a good coach, unity within the group, and players who are in good form at their clubs. Football is very much about confidence.
WAVE – Women’s football has been evolving and gaining ground in recent years. Even so, do you believe there are still barriers or prejudice?
MILENE DOMINGUES – I do believe there is still some prejudice, yes, but we are making great progress. Today we see more girls dreaming of becoming players, more competitions, more visibility, and more support. It’s very important to continue showing that football is about passion, talent, and dedication, regardless of gender.
WAVE – How can the men’s World Cup help expand and encourage global interest in women’s football, as well as strengthen the visibility of the 2027 women’s tournament?
MILENE DOMINGUES – The men’s World Cup draws the attention of the entire world, so it’s a great opportunity to create space to talk more about women’s football, showcasing stories, talent, and women’s achievements. When there is exposure, investment, and respect, interest grows naturally. I believe both go hand in hand: the more football is valued as a whole, the stronger the women’s game becomes.
WAVE – What has your experience been like as an ambassador for Corinthians’ women’s football?
MILENE DOMINGUES – It has been a wonderful and very special experience. Corinthians has a beautiful history in women’s football and a very serious project. I feel honored to represent this cause, support the athletes, and help further strengthen the sport. It’s something I do with a lot of love.
WAVE – How has it been for you to present and comment at Rede Ronaldo? What have been the learnings, challenges, and most memorable moments?
MILENE DOMINGUES – It has been a great learning experience. I always lived football on the pitch, so being on the communication side now is both challenging and very rewarding. I learn every day, gain more confidence, and I’m happy to share my opinion in a light and authentic way. The most memorable moments are the interactions with people and the audience’s support.
WAVE – Your son Ronald Nazário grew up surrounded by a sports environment but chose to pursue a career in music. How do you view his independent path?
MILENE DOMINGUES – I see it with great pride. I always taught Ronald to be himself and follow his heart. He found music as a way to express himself, and I fully respect and support that. The most important thing for me is seeing him happy, being a good person with character and values.
WAVE – What are your upcoming projects and plans for the next few months, both in women’s football and other areas?
MILENE DOMINGUES – I want to continue supporting women’s football, participating in projects that encourage girls and strengthen the sport. I also remain open to new opportunities in communication and social initiatives, which have always been part of my life. My focus is to keep doing things that have purpose and can inspire others.
