Sports

The female footballers who have made history

Explore the most impactful female soccer players of all time. This list celebrates the athletes who have broken barriers, set records, and inspired generations. From World Cup winners to Ballon d'Or recipients, discover the stories and achievements of the women who have shaped the landscape of women's football and continue to elevate the sport to new heights. Learn about the legends and rising stars who have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.

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  1. 1

    Alexia Putellas

    28 Global Votes
    • Captains FC Barcelona Femení

      (+4)

    Alexia Putellas is a central figure in women's football today, recognized with multiple Ballon d'Or awards and The Best FIFA Women's Player award. Her recent launch of exclusive boots with Nike in February 2026 solidifies her status as a global icon and one of the most influential players.

  2. 2

    Aitana Bonmatí

    28 Global Votes
    • Won five league titles

      (+4)

    Aitana Bonmatí has dominated women's football in recent years, winning the Ballon d'Or and The Best FIFA Women's Player award in 2023 and The Best FIFA Women's Player award again in 2025. Her position at the top of the ESPN FC 50 Women's Rank 2025 for the third consecutive year positions her as the best player in the world today.

  3. 3

    Caroline Graham Hansen

    28 Global Votes

    Caroline Graham Hansen is consistently ranked among the best forwards in the world in 2025 and 2026, and is featured in the top 20 of EA Sports FC 26. Her impact in important matches keeps her as a dangerous and effective attacker.

  4. 4

    Alessia Russo

    28 Global Votes
    • Current holder of FWA Women's Footballer of the Year for 2024-25

      (+1)

    Alessia Russo is a rising forward, featured in the top players of EA Sports FC 26 and recognized as one of the best in the world in 2025. Her progression and ability to be decisive position her as a key player.

  5. 5

    Patri Guijarro

    28 Global Votes
    • Guided Barcelona to a league title

      (+3)

    Patri Guijarro is an indispensable midfielder for FC Barcelona, renowned for her solidity in the middle of the park and her tactical importance. Her inclusion in the EA Sports FC 26 top 20 underscores her relevance in the current landscape.

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  7. 6

    Mapi León

    28 Global Votes
    • First paid transfer in Spanish women's football history

    Mapi León is an elite center-back, distinguished by her excellent ball distribution and leadership in defense. Her presence in the EA Sports FC 26 top 20 confirms her status as one of the best defenders in the world.

  8. 7

    Khadija Shaw

    28 Global Votes
    • Considered one of the best strikers in the world

      (+4)

    Khadija Shaw is a striker known for her prolific goalscoring ability and presence in the penalty area. Her inclusion in the EA Sports FC 26 top 20 positions her as one of the most feared attackers in women's football today.

  9. 8

    Christiane Endler

    28 Global Votes
    • Best goalkeeper in women

      (+4)

    Christiane Endler is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world, with great reflexes and confidence between the posts. Her inclusion in the EA Sports FC 26 top 20 reaffirms her status as a global benchmark in goal.

  10. 9

    Barbra Banda

    28 Global Votes
    • Africa's all-time top scorer in Olympic football history

      (+4)

    Barbra Banda was included in the FIFPRO Women's World XI 2025 for the second consecutive time, a milestone for an African player. This recognition underscores her impact and quality in world football today.

  11. 10

    Linda Caicedo

    28 Global Votes
    • Won multiple individual awards

      (+4)

    Linda Caicedo is a promising young Colombian player who has burst onto the scene, ranking 14th in the ESPN FC 50 Women's Rank 2025. Her rapid rise and talent position her as one of the brightest talents in women's football.

  12. 11

    Marta Vieira da Silva

    28 Global Votes
    • Widely regarded as the best female soccer player of all time

      (+4)

    Marta is widely considered the greatest female footballer of all time, with six FIFA Women's World Player of the Year awards and the record for most goals scored in World Cups. Her legacy transcends the pitch, inspiring generations and breaking down barriers.

  13. 12

    Megan Rapinoe

    28 Global Votes
    • Winner of Women's Golden Ball

      (+4)

    Megan Rapinoe, winner of two World Cups and an Olympic gold medal, is a historic figure whose activism off the field amplifies her legacy. Her influence in the fight for equality makes her a role model.

  14. 13

    Christine Sinclair

    28 Global Votes
    • Olympic gold medallist

      (+4)

    Christine Sinclair is the all-time leading international goalscorer in the history of football (men's and women's) with 190 goals. This extraordinary record and her longevity solidify her status as an undisputed legend of the sport.

  15. 14

    Alex Morgan

    28 Global Votes
    • 2x World Cup Champion

      (+4)

    Alex Morgan is a two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, considered one of the most famous and media-savvy players. Her continued success and status as a global icon keep her a relevant figure and one of the best forwards.

  16. 15

    Vero Boquete

    28 Global Votes
    • First Spanish player in UEFA Women's Champions League final

      (+4)

    Vero Boquete is one of the most influential Spanish footballers, a pioneer in international leagues and a leader in the fight for the professionalization of women's football in Spain. Her career and activism make her a key historical figure.

  17. 16

    Lucy Bronze

    28 Global Votes
    • Won five Champions League titles

      (+4)

    Lucy Bronze is a world-class right-back, ranked in the top 20 of EA Sports FC 26. Her great attacking potential, defensive solidity, and experience keep her as one of the best full-backs in the world.