It’s that time of year again, isn't it? The air crackles with anticipation, not just for the roar of the crowd, but for the pronouncements that try to capture the ephemeral brilliance of the game. ESPN FC’s Women's Rank, now in its fifth year, has once again dived deep into the past twelve months of women's soccer, sifting through performances to crown the best of the best. And let me tell you, this year’s list feels particularly dynamic, a true reflection of a sport that’s evolving at breakneck speed.
This isn't just about who scored the most goals or made the most saves; it's about the narratives woven onto the pitch. We saw the UEFA Women's Euro in Switzerland shatter attendance records and deliver a goal-fest, culminating in a nail-biting rematch of the 2023 World Cup final. England, this time, edged out Spain in a penalty shootout – a moment that surely etched itself into the memories of fans and players alike.
And then there's the UEFA Champions League. For years, Barcelona and Lyon have been the titans, their names synonymous with European dominance. But this year? Arsenal, a surprise package, lifted the trophy, marking the first time an English team has claimed that prize since 2007. It’s a testament to the shifting power dynamics, a reminder that complacency is the enemy of greatness in this sport. Even as the 2025-26 season gets underway, the familiar chase is on, with Barcelona and Lyon undoubtedly aiming to reclaim their thrones.
Across the pond, the landscape is equally vibrant. Gotham FC continued their reign, securing another NWSL championship. But the growth doesn't stop there. The USL Super League completed its inaugural season with Tampa Bay Sun FC making history as its first champion, and the Northern Super League in Canada also made its debut. It’s a thrilling expansion, a sign that the women's game is not just growing, but truly blossoming.
This rapid expansion, this surge of talent and competition, is precisely what makes compiling a Top 50 list such a monumental task. Fourteen players are making their debut this year, a clear indicator of fresh talent bursting onto the scene. Seven players have managed to claw their way back onto the list after missing out last year, showcasing resilience and a determined spirit. And the race for the very top spot? Apparently, it was closer than you might think.
It’s also worth noting who isn't on the list this year, and why. Players like Naomi Girma (No. 2 last year), Sophia Wilson (No. 5 last year), Lauren James (No. 10 last year), and Mallory Swanson (No. 15 last year) are absent, largely due to injuries or personal milestones like pregnancy. It’s a poignant reminder that even the most elite athletes face life’s unpredictable turns, and their absence, while felt, opens doors for others to shine.
So, how do you even begin to rank these incredible athletes? ESPN FC assembled a panel of twenty-five coaches, general managers, analysts, and journalists – all experts in their field – who anonymously cast their votes. Out of 198 different players who received votes, this final Top 50 is the result. It’s a fascinating snapshot, a conversation starter, and a testament to the incredible talent gracing the women's soccer world today. Where do the likes of Trinity Rodman, Aitana Bonmatí, Emily Fox, and Alessia Russo land? The list itself holds the answers, and it’s a compelling read for any fan of the beautiful game.
Looking at the lower end of the list, we see exciting debuts and strong performances. Olivia Smith, at just 21, makes her debut at No. 50. Arsenal’s significant investment in her, a world-record fee for her signature, speaks volumes about her potential. Her seven goals and impressive WSL performances last year, leading Liverpool in scoring and sweeping Player and Young Player of the Year awards, are a clear justification. She’s a fine dribbler, capable of creating magic out of thin air, and her shot-creating actions per 90 minutes place her among the league's best. It’s hard to ignore her impact, and her rapid ascent makes her one of the most sought-after talents.
Further up, at No. 49, we find Debinha. After dropping 23 spots from last year, the 34-year-old Brazilian has shown that peak form can indeed return. She was instrumental in the Kansas City Current’s record-breaking season, a focal point of their attack despite minor injuries. Her ability to reinvent herself, shifting between forward and attacking midfield roles, is remarkable. Precision on free kicks, clinical finishing on the counter, and that uncanny vision to pull off the unexpected – Debinha continues to be a force.
And at No. 48, Steph Catley makes a reentry onto the list. The Australian defender played a crucial role in Arsenal's defensive solidity last season, completing over 1,100 passes. While not her preferred position, her transition to center back from left back was seamless. Her composure under pressure, precise tackles, and game intelligence were vital in elevating Arsenal's back line throughout their European campaign.
