In a surprising turn of events, five United States women’s national team players have been nominated for the prestigious 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or award. This annual accolade, presented by France Football magazine, celebrates the outstanding achievements of female footballers around the world. Among the nominees are captain and midfielder Lindsey Horan, goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, and forwards Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson. This impressive lineup comes on the heels of their recent success in clinching the 2024 Olympic gold medal.
The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) has asserted its dominance in the 30-player shortlist, sharing the lead with 2023 World Cup champions Spain, who also boast five players on the esteemed list. USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has also garnered recognition for her exceptional leadership, earning a nomination for Women’s Coach of the Year. The collective efforts of these individuals have not only brought glory to their respective teams but have also elevated the status of women’s soccer on the global stage.
It is notable that four out of the five USWNT players nominated ply their trade domestically in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), with Horan being the exception as she represents Lyon in France. The NWSL is further highlighted by the inclusion of Orlando Pride and Zambian forward Barbra Banda, who has made a significant impact in her debut season by ranking second in the league in scoring. Moreover, NJ/NY Gotham FC has been nominated for Women’s Club of the Year following their triumph in the 2023 NWSL Championship, showcasing the league’s depth and talent pool.
Rodman, Smith, and Swanson were instrumental in the USWNT’s success at the Olympics, accounting for 10 out of the team’s 12 goals during the tournament. Their ability to deliver crucial goals, including game-winners in pivotal knockout stage matches, underscores their composure and skill under pressure. The trio, affectionately dubbed “Triple Espresso,” demonstrated their synergy and determination throughout the competition, culminating in a historic first Olympic gold medal since 2012 for the USWNT.
Individually, each player has showcased their prowess on the field, with Rodman being the only player to feature in every USWNT match since the beginning of 2023. Smith’s nomination for the 2023 NWSL MVP Award further solidifies her status as a rising star in women’s soccer. Naeher’s heroics in crucial moments, including decisive saves in the semifinal and gold medal matches, have not gone unnoticed, making her the sole goalkeeper on the 30-player shortlist. Horan’s consistent presence and contribution, starting all six matches at the Olympics, exemplifies her importance to the USWNT’s success.
The inclusion of Spanish players Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey, Patricia Guijarro, Salma Paralluelo, and Alexia Putellas underscores the international nature of the Women’s Ballon d’Or award. Spain, despite finishing fourth at the Olympics, has consistently produced top-tier talent, with Putellas and Bonmatí being previous winners of the award. The recognition of players from diverse footballing nations reflects the evolving landscape of women’s soccer and the growing competitiveness at the highest level.
As the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or approaches, anticipation builds around the potential winners and the overall impact of the award on the women’s game. The legacy of past recipients, including Ada Hegerberg and Megan Rapinoe, serves as a reminder of the achievements and challenges faced by female footballers globally. The recognition of USWNT players in this year’s nominations signifies a shift towards greater visibility and appreciation for the talent and dedication displayed by women in the sport.
The rise of USWNT players in the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or nominations highlights the team’s collective success and individual excellence. As these athletes continue to inspire the next generation of female footballers, their presence on the international stage serves as a testament to their skill, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the beautiful game.
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