Discover the women who have shaped the history of women's football. This ranking celebrates the pioneers, stars, and most influential figures who have elevated the sport to new heights. From the founding mothers to modern legends, explore their legacies and contributions. It's an opportunity to recognise the impact of these sportswomen on the development and popularisation of women's football globally.
First player to score in five consecutive Olympic Games
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Marta has led Brazil to multiple titles, including a Copa America Femenina in 2018, and has won a record six FIFA World Player of the Year awards. She is the first player to score in five consecutive Olympic Games and holds the record for 17 goals in World Cups, surpassing any other player, male or female.
Ranks third in international goals scored
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Mia Hamm was a prolific forward who set a record of 158 goals in 276 games for the U.S. national team, demonstrating exceptional scoring ability. Her leadership and contributions were instrumental in the United States winning two FIFA Women's World Cups and two Olympic gold medals, solidifying her legacy in women's football.
Debuted for national team at 16
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Birgit Prinz was a dominant figure in women's football, winning the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2003 and being named FIFA World Player of the Year in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Her leadership and skills were instrumental in the German national team's successes, including multiple UEFA European Championships and Olympic medals.
12 all-time World Cup goals
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Michelle Akers was a dominant force in women's football, leading the United States to two FIFA Women's World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal. Her impact extends to being named FIFA Co-Player of the Century, solidifying her status as a pioneer and legend of the sport.
Olympic gold medallist
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Christine Sinclair is the all-time leading international goal scorer, with 190 goals, surpassing any other footballer, male or female. Her leadership as captain of the Canadian national team and her multiple Olympic medals, including a gold, solidify her legacy as a historic figure in women's football.
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Dominant and iconic figure
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Abby Wambach is an iconic figure in women's football, distinguished by her record of 184 goals in 255 appearances for the U.S. national team, making her the second-highest international goal scorer in history. Her leadership was pivotal in her team winning the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup and two Olympic gold medals, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential athletes of her generation.
Captain of 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup winning team
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Homare Sawa is an iconic figure in women's football, renowned for leading Japan to their historic victory in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. Her exceptional 22-year international career, coupled with multiple individual accolades such as the 2011 World Cup Golden Ball and Golden Boot, establishes her as one of the most influential and decorated footballers in history.
Scored 106 goals in 152 games
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Sun Wen was a dominant force in women's football, leading China to an Olympic silver medal and earning both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball at the 1999 World Cup. Her impact extended beyond the pitch, as she was recognized with the FIFA Internet Award for Female Player of the Century, receiving the most online votes.
Oldest woman to score in a World Cup final
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Megan Rapinoe has been a dominant force in women's football, leading the US national team to multiple World Cup and Olympic victories. Her impact extends beyond the pitch, as she is an influential voice in the fight for equality and social justice.
First to win UEFA Women's Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or Féminin twice in a row
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Alexia Putellas has redefined women's football with her individual and collective achievements, including two consecutive Ballon d'Or Féminin and two The Best FIFA Women's Player awards. Her leadership and talent were instrumental in the Spanish national team winning the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Nations League, solidifying her status as one of the sport's most influential figures.
Two-time Olympic gold medalist
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Carli Lloyd is an iconic figure in women's football, recognized for her two FIFA Women's World Cups and two Olympic gold medals. Her ability to score decisive goals in major finals and her leadership on the field establish her as one of the most influential footballers of her generation.
Holds many international records
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Formiga is an iconic figure in women's football, recognized for her extraordinary longevity and dedication to the sport. She is the only football player in history, male or female, to have participated in seven World Cups and seven Olympic Games, a record that underscores her impact and consistency across several decades.
All-time top scorer for England Women
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Kelly Smith is the all-time leading goal scorer for the England women's national team, with 46 goals in 117 appearances, a record that still stands. Her skill, speed, and ball control established her as one of the most rounded and respected forwards in world football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Scored over 900 goals
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Lily Parr was a revolutionary figure who played football for nearly 30 years, scoring approximately 1,000 goals and defying societal norms. Her pioneering spirit and dedication paved the way for today's thriving women's football scene, making her an enduring inspiration for many communities. Furthermore, she was an iconic LGBTQ+ rights advocate and a working-class hero during the first Golden Age of women's football in Britain.
The selection of historical leaders in women's football is based on an editorial analysis of their impact, achievements, and legacy in the sport. The community also plays a fundamental role in shaping the final ranking.