The FIFA Women’s World Cup isn’t just a tournament but a stage where the world’s most exceptional female footballers gather to showcase their talents and create unforgettable moments. From the inaugural edition in 1991 to the thrilling battles of 2023, the Women’s World Cup has been a canvas upon which legends are born and history written.
They have not only showcased the brilliance of the teams but also celebrated the individual excellence of players who have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. As we come to the end of the current edition, let’s spotlight the award-winning players who have illuminated the World Cup with their skill, dedication, and passion, becoming symbols of inspiration for aspiring athletes and fans alike.
From Golden Ball recipients to Golden Boot winners and the guardians of the Golden Glove, here is a list celebrating the remarkable athletes who have etched their names in the hallowed halls of Women’s World Cup history.
FIFA Women’s World Cup 1991:
- Golden Ball (Best Player): Carin Jennings (USA)
- Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Michelle Akers (USA)
- Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Gao Hong (China PR)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 1995:
- Golden Ball: Hege Riise (Norway)
- Golden Boot: Ann Kristin Aarones (Norway)
- Golden Glove: Sandra Minnert (Germany)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 1999:
- Golden Ball: Sun Wen (China PR)
- Golden Boot: Sun Wen (China PR)
- Golden Glove: Gao Hong (China PR)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2003:
- Golden Ball: Birgit Prinz (Germany)
- Golden Boot: Birgit Prinz (Germany)
- Golden Glove: Silke Rottenberg (Germany)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007:
- Golden Ball: Marta (Brazil)
- Golden Boot: Marta (Brazil)
- Golden Glove: Nadine Angerer (Germany)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2011:
- Golden Ball: Homare Sawa (Japan)
- Golden Boot: Homare Sawa (Japan)
- Golden Glove: Hope Solo (USA)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015:
- Golden Ball: Carli Lloyd (USA)
- Golden Boot: Célia Šašić (Germany) and Carli Lloyd (USA)
- Golden Glove: Hope Solo (USA)
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019:
- Golden Ball: Megan Rapinoe (USA)
- Golden Boot: Megan Rapinoe (USA)
- Golden Glove: Sari van Veenendaal (Netherlands)