Spain won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on August 20, defeating England 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from Olga Carmona. The Lionesses were outplayed for much of the game, as Jorge Vilda’s side gave a dominant performance. It was the second time in a row that England’s coach, Sarina Wiegman, had lost a World Cup final, having also been defeated four years ago by the Netherlands.
With the season now over, the Ballon d’Or debate is likely to be dominated by the FIFA World Cup. The men’s race is expected to be between Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. In contrast, the women’s race could be a closer contest, with Alexia Putellas, Aitana Bonmati, and Marta among the favorites.
1. Fridolina Rolfo (Swedehonor,n and Barcelona)
There has been some criticism of Rolfo’s performances for the national team in the past. Some people have felt that she does not perform at the same level for her country as she does for her club.
However, she silenced her critics at this year’s World Cup, scoring three goals as Sweden finished third. This, coupled with the La Liga and Champions League titles she won with Barcelona, plus her 26 goal involvements, will put her in good standing for individual awards.
Bringing home the bronze for Sweden in the World Cup is an honour. Proud to have given it my all alongside an incredible team and the support from fans has been amazing. Thank you for coming on this journey with us??? pic.twitter.com/9Z6bqCOtky
— Fridolina Rolfö (@FridolinaRolfo) August 20, 2023
2. Alexandra Popp (Wolfsburg and Germany)
Alexandra Popp is a striker who is always ready to score goals. She had another strong domestic campaign with Wolfsburg, scoring 31 goals as they won the DFP-Pokal. However, Germany’s early exit from the World Cup will hurt her chances of winning individual awards.
Despite their shock group stage exit, Popp still managed to score four goals in the tournament. Her performances at club level and in the World Cup will be taken into account when the individual awards are decided.
6 – Across the 2022 Women's Euros and 2023 World Cup, only Alexandra Popp (10) has more goals than Alessia Russo (6). Occasion. pic.twitter.com/7WLbbV8CTW
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 12, 2023
3. Kadidiatou Diani (PSG and France)
After another successful season in front of goal, the prolific forward has left Paris Saint-Germain to join their rivals, Lyon.
Marie-Antoinette Katoto’s long-term injury allowed her to shine, and she scored 42 goals or provided assists in 42 appearances. She also scored four goals and provided three assists for France at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, helping them reach the quarter-finals.
??#KD11 #FiersdetreBleues #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/Pl8yMxn3UX
— Kadidiatou Diani ? (@kady944) August 11, 2023
4. Lauren Hemp
Lauren Hemp was not considered a contender for the Ballon d’Or before the 2023 Women’s World Cup began. However, she took full advantage of Lauren James’ red card in the round of 16 to help England reach the final.
The Manchester City forward was on the losing side in the final, but her contributions in Australia and New Zealand could still put her among the top nominees for the award.
TOP performance, @lauren__hemp! ? pic.twitter.com/WSrwvZhx6I
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 16, 2023
5. Aitana Bonmati
Many people believe that Aitana Bonmati is the favorite to succeed Alexia Putellas as the best player in the world. Pep Guardiola, one of the greatest coaches of all time, has even called her the “Andres Iniesta of the women’s game.”
The 25-year-old had a stellar season, scoring 19 goals and providing 21 assists as Barcelona won three trophies, including the Champions League. She was also named the tournament’s best player.
Aitana Bonmatí wins the #FIFAWWC Golden Ball ? pic.twitter.com/3CezOYpuKU
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 20, 2023
After a stellar season with Barcelona, Aitana Bonmati continued her fine form at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She scored three goals and provided two assists, and was also instrumental in the final, helping Spain to victory.
Bonmati’s performances were rewarded with the Golden Ball, making her the first Spanish player to win the award.