Top Women's World Player Of The Year: Who Will Win?

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Ever wonder who the absolute best women's soccer player in the world is? Well, that's what the World Player of the Year award is all about! This prestigious award celebrates the most outstanding female footballer annually, recognizing their exceptional skills, dedication, and impact on the beautiful game. In this article, we're diving deep into what it takes to be a contender, some of the past winners who've left their mark, and who might just snag the title this year. So, grab your cleats and let's get started!

What it Takes to Be the Best

So, what exactly makes a player worthy of being crowned the World Player of the Year? It's not just about scoring goals, although that definitely helps! Judges consider a range of factors, including:

  • Individual Skill and Performance: This is the bread and butter. Players are evaluated on their technical abilities, tactical awareness, and overall performance on the field. Think dazzling dribbling, pinpoint passes, and rock-solid defending.
  • Team Success: Leading your team to victory in major tournaments and leagues is a huge plus. Winning championships and cups demonstrates a player's ability to perform under pressure and contribute to a team's success.
  • Impact and Influence: How does a player impact the game beyond just goals and assists? Do they inspire their teammates? Do they change the flow of the game with their presence? These intangible qualities can make a big difference.
  • Fair Play and Sportsmanship: Nobody wants a dirty player to win the award. Maintaining a high level of sportsmanship and fair play is essential for being a role model on and off the field.
  • Consistency: A flash in the pan won't cut it. Judges look for players who consistently perform at a high level throughout the year, demonstrating their reliability and dedication to the sport.

In essence, the World Player of the Year award celebrates the complete package: a player who excels in all aspects of the game and embodies the spirit of football. It's about more than just stats; it's about leadership, inspiration, and making a positive impact on the sport.

Iconic Past Winners

Before we start speculating about this year's potential winners, let's take a moment to appreciate some of the legends who have graced the World Player of the Year stage. These players have not only achieved incredible success on the field but have also inspired generations of female footballers:

  • Marta (Brazil): Arguably the greatest female footballer of all time, Marta has won the award a record six times. Her dazzling skills, incredible goal-scoring record, and unwavering passion for the game have made her an icon. She's known for her exceptional dribbling ability, creativity on the ball, and clinical finishing. Marta's influence extends beyond the field, as she's a vocal advocate for women's rights and equality in sports.
  • Mia Hamm (USA): A true pioneer of women's soccer, Mia Hamm won the award twice and led the US Women's National Team to numerous victories, including two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal. Her speed, skill, and determination made her a force to be reckoned with. Hamm's impact on the sport is undeniable, as she helped popularize women's soccer in the United States and inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams.
  • Birgit Prinz (Germany): A powerful and prolific striker, Birgit Prinz won the award three times. She was known for her strength, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. Prinz led the German national team to two World Cup titles and several European Championships. Her contributions to German football are immense, and she's considered one of the greatest players in the country's history.
  • Abby Wambach (USA): The all-time leading scorer in international women's soccer, Abby Wambach was a dominant force in the air and a relentless competitor. Her passion, leadership, and ability to score crucial goals made her a fan favorite. Wambach's advocacy for equal pay and opportunities for female athletes has made her an influential figure both on and off the field.
  • Megan Rapinoe (USA): A modern icon of the game, Megan Rapinoe won the award in 2019 after leading the US Women's National Team to another World Cup title. Her exceptional skills, outspoken personality, and advocacy for social justice have made her a role model for many. Rapinoe's impact extends beyond soccer, as she uses her platform to raise awareness about important issues and inspire positive change.

These are just a few of the many incredible players who have been recognized as World Player of the Year. Their achievements and contributions to the sport have paved the way for future generations of female footballers.

This Year's Top Contenders

Alright, let's get down to the exciting part: who are the frontrunners for this year's World Player of the Year award? The competition is always fierce, but here are a few players who have been making waves and are likely to be in the running:

  • Alexia Putellas (Spain): The current holder of the award, Alexia Putellas has been dominating the midfield for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Her exceptional vision, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability make her a complete player. If she continues her impressive form, she'll be a strong contender to win the award again.
  • Sam Kerr (Australia): A prolific goalscorer with a knack for finding the back of the net, Sam Kerr has been tearing up defenses for Chelsea and the Australian national team. Her speed, agility, and clinical finishing make her a nightmare for defenders. Kerr's goal-scoring prowess and leadership qualities make her a serious contender for the award.
  • Ada Hegerberg (Norway): After returning from a long injury layoff, Ada Hegerberg has been back to her best, scoring goals for fun for Lyon. Her aerial ability, strength, and finishing skills make her one of the most dangerous strikers in the world. If she can maintain her fitness and continue to score goals, she'll be a strong contender for the award.
  • Lena Oberdorf (Germany): A rising star in the world of women's soccer, Lena Oberdorf has been impressing with her performances for Wolfsburg and the German national team. Her versatility, athleticism, and tactical awareness make her a valuable asset to any team. Oberdorf's potential is immense, and she could be a dark horse in the race for the award.
  • Alexandra Popp (Germany): Alexandra Popp is a German footballer who plays as a striker for VfL Wolfsburg and the Germany national team. Known for her aerial ability and strong presence in the penalty area, Popp has consistently been a top performer in both club and international football.

These are just a few of the many talented players who could be in contention for the World Player of the Year award. The winner will ultimately be decided by a combination of factors, including individual performance, team success, and overall impact on the game. It's going to be an exciting race to watch!

What to Watch For

As the year progresses, keep an eye on these key factors that could influence the World Player of the Year selection:

  • Major Tournaments: Big tournaments like the World Cup or the Olympics can significantly impact a player's chances. Performing well on the world stage can elevate a player's profile and impress the voters.
  • League Performance: Consistent performance in top domestic leagues is crucial. Players who consistently score goals, create chances, and lead their teams to victory will be in a strong position.
  • Individual Awards: Winning individual awards like the Golden Boot or MVP trophies can boost a player's chances. These awards recognize outstanding individual achievements and demonstrate a player's impact on the game.
  • Surprise Performances: Keep an eye out for players who might surprise everyone with breakout performances. Sometimes, a player can emerge from nowhere to make a big impact and challenge the established stars.

Final Thoughts

The World Player of the Year award is a celebration of the best that women's soccer has to offer. It recognizes the exceptional skills, dedication, and impact of the players who inspire us all. Whether it's Putellas, Kerr, Hegerberg, or another deserving candidate, the winner will undoubtedly be a player who has left their mark on the beautiful game. So, let's sit back, enjoy the show, and celebrate the incredible talent of these amazing athletes! Who do you think will win, guys? Let us know in the comments below!