Megan Campbell, the Republic of Ireland and London City Lionesses defender, has set a remarkable Guinness World Record for the longest soccer throw-in ever recorded by a woman. On April 30, 2025, Campbell, aged 31, achieved a throw-in distance of 37.55 meters (123 feet 2 inches) at the London City Lionesses’ training ground, surpassing the previous record of 35 meters and making history as the first woman to hold this record.
Campbell’s achievement was met with humor as she joked with Guinness World Records, saying, “I think my record might stand for about a week until someone gets hold of the information.” This light-hearted comment reflects her competitive nature, with Campbell acknowledging the potential for someone to break the record soon.
The talented defender, who has represented Manchester City, Liverpool, and Everton in her career, has earned 50 caps for the Republic of Ireland. Her powerful throw-ins have long been a standout feature of her playing style. During an England vs. Republic of Ireland match in April 2024, Campbell’s throws were a focal point, as they repeatedly threatened the English defense. The throws were estimated to reach distances of around 38 meters, causing significant trouble for Sarina Wiegman’s side. Former England international Karen Carney even remarked, “I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it from Megan Campbell. It’s unbelievable and it caused problems.”
To set the Guinness World Record, Campbell was challenged to throw the ball beyond a mannequin placed 35 meters away. With her incredible flexibility and hypermobility, which provides an enhanced range of motion in her joints, Campbell’s throw-in ability has been a part of her game since her youth. “My throw developed when I was about 12 or 13, playing for a boys’ team back home, and my throw was longer than the boys,” she shared.
Campbell’s throw has not only been a personal triumph but also a tactical advantage for her teams. “It’s just something I’ve always had, I never specifically worked on it, but it’s something nice to have in the back pocket when needed,” she added.
In addition to her record-breaking throw, Campbell’s club, London City Lionesses, achieved promotion to the Women’s Super League last week. Under the ownership of American businesswoman Michele Kang, the Lionesses will become the first fully independent club, not affiliated with a men’s team, to compete in England’s top-tier women’s soccer league.
