Throughout the history of women’s soccer, extraordinary talents have graced the pitch, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. These remarkable athletes have not only shattered barriers but also inspired generations with their skill, dedication, and passion for the game.
In this list, we celebrate the trailblazers and icons who have redefined the boundaries of women’s soccer and earned their place among the greatest of all time.
From dazzling forwards who can score seemingly at will to rock-solid defenders who thwart any offensive attack, these players have showcased their exceptional abilities on both national and international stages.
So, join us as we count down the top 10 best women’s soccer players of all time, reflecting on their unparalleled achievements and the immeasurable impact they have had on the beautiful game.
Top 10 Best Women’s Soccer Players of All Time
The history of women’s soccer is filled with remarkable players who have contributed to the sport’s growth and recognition worldwide.
These ten women stand out not only for their individual achievements but also for their collective impact on women’s soccer as a whole.
1. Marta Vieira da Silva (Brazil)
Known simply as “Marta,” she is often regarded as the greatest female soccer player of all time. Born in Brazil in 1986, Marta burst onto the scene with her electrifying speed, incredible ball control, and goal-scoring prowess.
She has won the FIFA World Player of the Year award five times, a testament to her consistent dominance on the field. Marta’s illustrious career includes stints with top clubs like Umeå IK, FC Rosengård, and Orlando Pride.
Her ability to carry her teams to victory and inspire her teammates has earned her widespread admiration and respect worldwide.
2. Abby Wambach (United States)
Abby Wambach is an American soccer legend, known for her aerial prowess and knack for scoring crucial goals. Born in 1980, Wambach won two Olympic gold medals and was a key player in the United States 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup triumph.
She retired as the all-time leading goal scorer in international soccer, male or female, with an astonishing 184 goals. Beyond her goal-scoring abilities, Wambach’s leadership and tenacity on the field made her an iconic figure in women’s soccer.
3. Birgit Prinz (Germany)
During her playing career from 1994 to 2011, Birgit Prinz was the heart of the German national team.
She is one of the most successful female players in history, winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup twice (2003, 2007) and the UEFA Women’s Championship multiple times.
Prinz was a versatile forward, combining her physicality with skill and precision, resulting in numerous goals and assists. Her remarkable consistency and professionalism earned her a place among the all-time greats.
4. Michelle Akers (United States)
Michelle Akers was a pioneer of women’s soccer and played a crucial role in the early development of the sport.
As a member of the United States Women’s National Team, she helped her country win the inaugural FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1991, scoring ten goals in the tournament.
Akers was known for her strength, athleticism, and fierce competitive spirit, making her a force to be reckoned with on the field. Her legacy as one of the game’s early stars continues to inspire generations of players.
5. Homare Sawa (Japan)
Homare Sawa etched her name in history by leading Japan to victory in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she was the tournament’s top scorer and named the tournament’s best player. Sawa’s technical abilities, vision, and leadership made her a standout midfielder.
She also played a significant role in Japan’s silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Throughout her career, Sawa showcased her skillful playmaking and goal-scoring abilities, cementing her place among the greatest players of all time.
6. Sun Wen (China)
Sun Wen, often referred to as “Sister Sun,” is a Chinese soccer icon who made her mark in the 1990s.
A prolific goal scorer and creative playmaker, she led China to a runner-up finish in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.
Her vision, technique, and precise shooting ability earned her numerous individual accolades, including the FIFA Female Player of the Century award in 2000.
7. Mia Hamm (United States)
Mia Hamm played an instrumental role in popularizing women’s soccer in the United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s. As part of the “golden generation” of American women’s soccer, Hamm won two FIFA Women’s World Cups (1991, 1999) and two Olympic gold medals.
Her speed, skill, and goal-scoring proficiency made her a feared forward. Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Hamm’s impact on women’s sports and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes cannot be overstated.
8. Homare Sawa (Japan)
Homare Sawa etched her name in history by leading Japan to victory in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she was the tournament’s top scorer and named the tournament’s best player.
Sawa’s technical abilities, vision, and leadership made her a standout midfielder. She also played a significant role in Japan’s silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
Throughout her career, Sawa showcased her skillful playmaking and goal-scoring abilities, cementing her place among the greatest players of all time.
9. Sun Wen (China)
Sun Wen, often referred to as “Sister Sun,” is a Chinese soccer icon who made her mark in the 1990s.
A prolific goal scorer and creative playmaker, she led China to a runner-up finish in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.
Her vision, technique, and precise shooting ability earned her numerous individual accolades, including the FIFA Female Player of the Century award in 2000.
10. Mia Hamm (United States)
Mia Hamm played an instrumental role in popularizing women’s soccer in the United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s. As part of the “golden generation” of American women’s soccer, Hamm won two FIFA Women’s World Cups (1991, 1999) and two Olympic gold medals.
Her speed, skill, and goal-scoring proficiency made her a feared forward. Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Hamm’s impact on women’s sports and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes cannot be overstated.
From the trailblazing pioneers who fought for recognition and opportunities to the modern-day superstars who continue to raise the bar, these players have proven that women’s soccer is just as captivating and competitive as its male counterpart.
Their influence extends beyond the field, inspiring young girls and boys alike to pursue their dreams and believe in the power of equality in sports.
As the women’s game continues to flourish, their legacy will remain a guiding light, guiding future generations to strive for excellence, break barriers, and leave their mark on the beautiful game.
How Female Soccer Players Are Ranked?
Female soccer players are ranked based on various criteria, including individual achievements, skill level, performances in domestic leagues, international competitions, and overall impact on the game.
Several organizations and media outlets regularly release rankings of the top female soccer players. Here are some common factors considered in ranking female soccer players:
Individual Awards
Players who have received prestigious individual awards, such as the FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year, UEFA Women’s Player of the Year, or other regional awards, often receive high rankings.
International Performances
Success in major international tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup, UEFA Women’s European Championship, Olympic Games, and regional competitions plays a significant role in player rankings. Exceptional performances in these events elevate a player’s standing.
Club Performances
Consistency and impact in domestic leagues and top-level club competitions are considered. Players who consistently perform at a high level for their clubs receive recognition in rankings.
Goal-Scoring Record
Goal-scoring ability is a crucial factor in ranking players. A prolific goal scorer with a high number of goals in international and club competitions is likely to be ranked higher.
Assists and Contributions
The ability to create goal-scoring opportunities and contribute to the team’s success through assists, key passes, and overall playmaking skills are also considered.
Leadership and Teamwork
Players who demonstrate leadership qualities and positively impact their team’s performance are highly regarded. Captains and players who inspire their teammates often receive higher rankings.
Positional Expertise
The specific role and position a player occupies on the field can affect their ranking. For example, forwards and attacking players who consistently find the back of the net tend to receive more attention, but defenders and goalkeepers with outstanding defensive performances are also recognized.
Influence on the Game
A player’s influence on the development and popularity of women’s soccer, both on and off the field, can play a role in their ranking. Players who contribute to the growth of the sport and act as role models are often highly regarded.
Career Longevity and Consistency
Players with long and successful careers, who consistently perform at a high level over an extended period, are more likely to be ranked among the all-time greats.
Peer Recognition and Media Perception
The opinions of fellow players, coaches, and media experts can influence rankings. Polls, surveys, and expert analysis also contribute to the overall perception of a player’s ranking.
It’s essential to note that rankings can be subjective, and different organizations or media outlets may have varying criteria and methodologies for their rankings. As women’s soccer continues to grow, the criteria for ranking players may evolve to reflect the changing landscape of the sport.
FAQs
Who is considered the greatest female soccer player of all time?
Marta Vieira da Silva, commonly known as Marta, is often considered the greatest female soccer player of all time. The Brazilian forward has won the FIFA World Player of the Year award five times and has been a dominant force in women’s soccer for many years.
How many FIFA Women’s World Cups has Abby Wambach won with the United States?
Abby Wambach, the American soccer legend, won the FIFA Women’s World Cup once with the United States. She was a key player in the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning team, where the United States emerged victorious, defeating Japan in the final.
Which player has the most goals in international soccer, male or female?
Abby Wambach holds the record for the most international goals scored in soccer, male or female. During her illustrious career, Wambach scored an incredible 184 goals for the United States Women’s National Team, cementing her place as the all-time leading goal scorer in international soccer history.
Who was the top scorer of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup?
Homare Sawa, the Japanese soccer star, was the top scorer of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Leading Japan to a historic victory in the tournament, she showcased her exceptional goal-scoring abilities and was instrumental in helping Japan secure their first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
How many FIFA Women’s World Cup titles has the United States Women’s National Team won?
The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) had won four FIFA Women’s World Cup titles. They achieved victory in the following years: 1991, 1999, 2015, and 2019. The USWNT’s success in these tournaments has solidified its status as one of the most successful and dominant teams in women’s soccer history.
Final Words
As we conclude our journey through the top 10 best women’s soccer players of all time, we are reminded of the incredible legacy these athletes have left behind.
Their remarkable skills, unwavering determination, and love for the sport have paved the way for future generations of women in soccer, proving that gender is no barrier to greatness on the pitch.
From the early pioneers who fought for recognition and opportunities to the modern-day superstars who continue to raise the bar, each player has played an instrumental role in the evolution of women’s soccer.
As we celebrate their achievements, let us also acknowledge the countless others who have contributed to the growth of women’s soccer. The sport is now stronger than ever, thanks to the dedication of players, coaches, fans, and advocates who continue to champion the cause.
