Aitana Bonmatí claimed the title of the best female soccer player 2024, cementing her status at the pinnacle of global football. Earning both her second consecutive Ballon d'Or Féminin and The Best FIFA Women's Player award, the Barcelona and Spain midfielder dominated the sport through elite vision, relentless pressing, and decisive goal contributions in high-stakes matches.
Global rankings for women's football are determined by a combination of major tournament performances, domestic league dominance, and individual statistical output. Evaluators from international panels, media organizations like The Guardian, and soccer governing bodies assess athletes across both club and international calendars.
The Podium: Who Rounded Out the Top Three?
While Bonmatí captured the primary spot, the rest of the podium featured exceptional talent that powered club and international success.
Caroline Graham Hansen
Securing the second-string spot in global rankings, Barcelona's Norwegian winger enjoyed a stellar campaign. Graham Hansen provided elite chance creation in Liga F and the UEFA Women's Champions League. Her trademark dribbling and precise delivery make her one of the most feared attacking threats on the flank.
Sophia Smith
As the top-ranking American player, Sophia Smith carried the Portland Thorns and the United States women's national team with explosive pace and clinical finishing. Her ability to break defensive lines under heavy pressure places her firmly among the world's elite forwards.
Criteria Behind the Global Rankings
Determining the top footballer requires looking beyond raw goal tallies. Experts weigh several distinct performance indicators:
- Trophy Impact: Winning major titles like the Champions League, domestic leagues, or international tournaments carries heavy weight in voting panels.
- Versatility and Work Rate: Midfielders and defenders who dictate tempo and break up opposition attacks compete directly with high-scoring forwards.
- Consistency: Maintaining top-tier form across a grueling 12-month calendar without major performance drops separates occasional stars from generational talents.
Key Contenders in the Global Top Ten
Beyond the podium, the top ten list showcased a mix of emerging wunderkinds and veteran stalwarts who shaped the sport:
- Salma Paralluelo: The young Spanish forward combined blistering speed with clinical composure for both Barcelona and Spain.
- Khadija Shaw: Manchester City's powerhouse striker dominated the English Women's Super League with brute strength and aerial dominance.
- Trinity Rodman: The dynamic American forward starred at the Paris Olympics, using her athleticism to secure crucial victories for the USWNT.
- Lindsey Horan: Providing leadership and clutch scoring from midfield, the US captain remained a focal point for Lyon.
Common Misconceptions About Player Rankings
Fans often evaluate players using flawed metrics that don't match professional assessment criteria.
One common error is relying solely on goal statistics. While strikers claim headlines, playmakers like Bonmatí dictate how a team controls possession, transitions from defense to offense, and neutralizes opponent counter-attacks. Another mistake is ignoring the gulf between domestic leagues. Dominating a lower-tier domestic league carries less weight than performing consistently in the Champions League knockout stages or high-pressure international fixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2024 Ballon d'Or Féminin?
Aitana Bonmatí won the 2024 Ballon d'Or Féminin, marking her second consecutive victory after dominating domestic and European play with Barcelona.
How are the global rankings decided?
Rankings are compiled through panels of international journalists, national team coaches, and captains who vote based on individual performance, sportsmanship, team success, and tactical influence throughout the calendar year.
Which club dominated the top 100 player lists?
FC Barcelona heavily populated the upper echelons of global rankings, reflecting their dominant run in European club competitions and the core strength they share with the Spanish national team.
What makes Aitana Bonmatí stand out from other midfielders?
Bonmatí combines exceptional spatial awareness, rapid feet in tight spaces, and a high defensive work rate. She regularly scores crucial goals in finals while orchestrating her team's entire passing rhythm.
