Five players from the United States women’s national team have been nominated for the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or award, showcasing their incredible talent and contribution to the sport. The team’s captain and midfielder Lindsey Horan, along with goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and forwards Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, have all made it to the prestigious 30-player shortlist. Their nominations come on the heels of their recent success at the 2024 Olympics, where they clinched the gold medal.
Spain, the 2023 World Cup champion, also boasts five players on the Women’s Ballon d’Or list, highlighting their continued dominance in women’s soccer. The competition between the USWNT and the Spanish national team adds an extra layer of intrigue to the award ceremony, as fans eagerly await the outcome.
Each of the nominated USWNT players has made significant contributions to their team’s success, both domestically and on the international stage. Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson were instrumental in securing 10 out of the team’s 12 goals at the Olympics, with each of them scoring crucial game-winners during the knockout stage. Alyssa Naeher’s impeccable goalkeeping skills were on full display during the Olympic tournament, where she made crucial saves in the semifinal and final matches.
The Women’s Ballon d’Or award has gained prominence in recent years, with players like Megan Rapinoe and Ada Hegerberg being recognized for their exceptional talent and achievements. The merging of the award with FIFA’s World Player of the Year in 2010 and subsequent return to independence in 2016 has added to the prestige of the accolade. However, the lack of American players in the top three positions in recent years has raised questions about the selection process and criteria for the award.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Women’s Ballon d’Or nominations, the award has not been without its controversies. Ada Hegerberg’s experience at the inaugural award ceremony, where she was asked to twerk by the host, French DJ Martin Solveig, sparked a backlash and highlighted the challenges faced by female athletes in the male-dominated world of sports. The lack of recognition for certain players, such as Naomi Girma, who was praised by USWNT head coach Emma Hayes as the best defender she has ever seen, raises concerns about the transparency and fairness of the selection process.
The 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or nominations have brought attention to the outstanding talent and achievements of female soccer players from around the world. While the nominations reflect the skill and dedication of the athletes, the award ceremony also sheds light on the need for greater recognition and support for women in sports. As the USWNT and other teams continue to push boundaries and break barriers, it is essential that their contributions are celebrated and acknowledged on a global stage.
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