Post by : Meena Ariff

In a proud moment for English football, five players from England’s victorious Euro 2025 squad have been nominated for the prestigious Women’s Ballon d’Or award. The list, announced on Thursday, celebrates the best women’s footballers from around the world and includes the finest talents from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

The England nominees are Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly, and Hannah Hampton. All five were key figures in helping England defend their European Championship crown in Switzerland last month, where they beat reigning world champions Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout in the final.

England’s Euro 2025 Triumph

The Lionesses’ road to glory was filled with determination and teamwork. They navigated the group stages with strong performances, overcame tough opponents in the knockout rounds, and faced Spain in a tense final. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match went to penalties, where England kept their composure to lift the trophy once again.

This victory marked England’s second consecutive European Championship title, cementing their place as one of the world’s leading teams in women’s football.

The English Nominees

Leah Williamson, England’s captain, showed leadership both on and off the pitch. Her defensive strength and ability to inspire her team were crucial in the tournament.

Lucy Bronze, the experienced Chelsea full-back, has been a consistent force in women’s football for years. At 33, she continues to perform at the highest level and was previously the Ballon d’Or runner-up in 2019.

Alessia Russo, Arsenal’s prolific striker, delivered key goals when it mattered most, earning her a place among the best.

Chloe Kelly, remembered for her Euro 2022 heroics, once again played a vital role in England’s attack, using her pace and skill to trouble defences.

Hannah Hampton, England’s 24-year-old goalkeeper, was one of the standout performers in the tournament. Her crucial saves during the penalty shootout in the final were unforgettable. She also helped Chelsea win a domestic treble this season.

Young Talent Recognised

Another England star, Michelle Agyemang, just 19 years old, has been nominated for the Women’s Kopa Trophy, which is awarded to the best women’s footballer under 21. Agyemang earned this nomination after being named the Young Player of the Tournament at Euro 2025. Her quick rise in the sport has made her one of the most exciting young talents in football.

Spain’s Powerhouses

Spain also has five players on the Ballon d’Or list, including two of the most successful players in recent years — Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas.

Bonmati, 27, has won the last two Ballon d’Or awards. This year, she led Barcelona to the Spanish league title and was named Best Player of the Tournament at Euro 2025 despite her side’s loss in the final.

Putellas, Barcelona’s captain, is a two-time Ballon d’Or winner (2021 and 2022) and remains one of the most respected midfielders in the game.

Clubs with the Most Nominees

Arsenal, who finished as runners-up in the Women’s Super League last season, lead all clubs with seven players on the shortlist. This includes Williamson, Russo, Kelly, and several international stars from other countries. Chelsea and Barcelona also have multiple representatives.

Legends and First-Time Nominees

This year’s list features a mix of experienced legends and rising stars. Marta, Brazil’s 39-year-old icon and Orlando Pride forward, continues to defy age, earning her nomination after leading Brazil to another Copa America title. She is the oldest player on the list.

Chelsea’s Sandy Baltimore, 25, has made the list for the first time after a strong season for club and country.

The Ceremony

The winner of the Women’s Ballon d’Or will be revealed at a special ceremony in Paris on September 22, 2025. Football fans around the world will be watching closely to see who takes home the sport’s most prestigious individual prize.

Full Nominee List

Lucy Bronze (ENG/Chelsea), Barbra Banda (ZAM/Orlando Pride), Aitana Bonmati (ESP/Barcelona), Sandy Baltimore (FRA/Chelsea), Mariona Caldentey (ESP/Arsenal), Klara Buehl (GER/Bayern), Sofia Cantore (ITA/Juventus), Steph Catley (AUS/Arsenal), Melchie Dumornay (HAI/Lyon), Temwa Chawinga (MWI/Kansas City), Emily Fox (USA/Arsenal), Cristiana Girelli (ITA/Juventus), Esther Gonzalez (ESP/Gotham FC), Caroline Graham Hansen (NOR/Barcelona), Patri Guijarro (ESP/Barcelona), Amanda Gutierres (BRA/Palmeiras), Hannah Hampton (ENG/Chelsea), Pernille Harder (DEN/Bayern), Lindsey Heaps (USA/Lyon), Chloe Kelly (ENG/Arsenal), Marta (BRA/Orlando Pride), Frida Leonhardsen Maanum (NOR/Arsenal), Ewa Pajor (POL/Barcelona), Clara Mateo (FRA/Paris FC), Alessia Russo (ENG/Arsenal), Claudia Pina (ESP/Barcelona), Alexia Putellas (ESP/Barcelona), Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (SWE/Chelsea), Caroline Weir (SCO/Real Madrid), Leah Williamson (ENG/Arsenal).