Celeb & Ent

BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year roll of honour

Since its inception in 2015, the Women’s Footballer of the Year award has celebrated the exceptional talents and achievements of female footballers on a global scale. This prestigious accolade, presented annually by the Football Writers’ Association (FWA), recognizes outstanding performances in the sport, highlighting the growth and popularity of women’s football. Over the years, the award has seen a diverse array of winners, showcasing the incredible skills and contributions of women in football.

The inaugural award in 2015 was claimed by the legendary Brazilian forward Marta, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers of all time. Marta’s victory set the tone for the award’s significance, as she became an icon for aspiring female athletes around the world. The following year, 2016, saw the award go to Norway’s Ada Hegerberg, who made headlines for her remarkable goal-scoring abilities and her pioneering role in promoting women’s football. Hegerberg’s win was particularly notable as it came just a few months after she made a bold statement by refusing to participate in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup until there was a significant improvement in the treatment of female players in her home country.

As the years progressed, the award continued to honor players who made significant impacts both on and off the pitch. In 2017, German midfielder Lena Oberdorf took home the title, followed by Danish star Pernille Harder in 2018, who became a trailblazer in the women’s game with her impressive goal tally. The 2019 award was won by the American sensation Megan Rapinoe, who not only excelled in her performance but also used her platform to advocate for gender equality in sports. The trend of recognizing players who are influential beyond football continued with the 2020 winner, Sam Kerr of Australia, whose dynamic play and leadership qualities have inspired many.

In 2021, the award went to the phenomenal Spanish midfielder Alexia Putella, who has been instrumental in FC Barcelona’s success in both domestic and European competitions. The 2022 winner, Beth Mead, shone brightly during the UEFA Women’s Euro, leading England to victory and solidifying her place among the sport’s elite. Most recently, in 2023, the award was claimed by Aitana Bonmatí, another Barcelona star, whose outstanding performances have further elevated her team’s status in women’s football.

The Women’s Footballer of the Year award not only celebrates individual excellence but also reflects the broader evolution of women’s football, which has gained significant visibility and support in recent years. As the sport continues to grow, the award serves as a reminder of the incredible talent and dedication of female athletes, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams in football. With each passing year, the list of winners becomes a testament to the remarkable achievements of women in sports, and it will be exciting to see who will be honored next.

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