NWSL and USWNT stars dominate the world's top player rankings in 2024

The year 2024 crowns Aitana Bonmatí for a second consecutive year as the best player in the world, but beyond the brilliance of Spain, the women's soccer scene has been dominated by a strong presence of NWSL athletes and the United States Women's National Team. The Guardian ranking-one of the most respected rankings in global soccer-shines light on international stars and also puts a spotlight on the wondrous players of the American League, reinforcing the global importance of the NWSL and the U.S. position in the sport.

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NWSL on the rise and Its most outstanding players

If 2024 proved anything, it is the status of the NWSL as one of the top leagues in the world. Stars such as Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Naomi Girma dominate both domestically and shine on the international stage-primarily with the USWNT-to make their top 10 spots.

Sophia Smith: the face of the NWSL

The Portland Thorns forward remains one of the league's top offensive forces. Just look at her stats: 12 goals in the NWSL regular season, to go along with a stellar Paris Olympics in which she played a crucial role in the USWNT's gold medal win. Smith fuses technique and precision like few others. Her presence in the Top 3 reflects growing recognition of NWSL talent beyond U.S. borders.

Trinity Rodman: the rising offensive star

Rodman had a sensational 2024. Playing for the Washington Spirit, she contributed to 14 goals during the regular season and was instrumental in leading the team to the NWSL final. Her impact was also felt in the USWNT jersey, where she netted three goals at the Olympics, cementing her place as one of the brightest young stars in global soccer.

Naomi Girma: the defensive wall

In a ranking often dominated by forwards, Naomi Girma of San Diego Wave secured her spot in the Top 10 as the only defender. Her calm, intelligence, and leadership on the field have earned her well-deserved recognition, proving that elite defenders can also steal the spotlight.

Marta and Debinha: Brazil's legacy in the NWSL

The Guardian's ranking also brought to the fore some of the key Brazilian names doing well in the NWSL. Marta, the eternal Queen of Soccer, returned to the Top 30 after a resurgent season with Orlando Pride; her decisive playoff goals showed that, at 38, she still is a game-changer.

On the other hand, Debinha struggled with injuries but showed flashes of her brilliance on her return to Kansas City Current. She helped her team get back on track with some crucial goals and assists, showing why she is considered one of the best forwards in the world.

Dominating at international level and USWNT impact

What stands out in the list of the world's top 100 players is the strong contingent of USWNT athletes, even in a year that wasn't perfect for some. Lindsey Horan, Mallory Swanson, and Emily Fox showed that the U.S. is not just a collective force but also a powerhouse of individual talent.

Lindsey Horan: the commanding leader

The USWNT captain was brilliant in the Olympics and has been one of the key players for Lyon, netting nine goals this season. Horan brings physicality and class, and her impact goes beyond the stats. Her leadership was praised by coach Emma Hayes, who talked about how Horan was instrumental in bringing the United States back to the pinnacle of world soccer.

Mallory Swanson: a triumphant return

After a serious injury ruled her out of the 2023 World Cup, Swanson came back with a vengeance in 2024. She scored the winning goal in the Olympic final and had an exceptional season for the Chicago Red Stars in the NWSL, showing both toughness and talent.

Continued growth for the NWSL

This ranking clearly underlines the NWSL's growing prominence on the global stage this year. With international stars such as Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, and Tarciane coming into the league, it has been solidified as the perfect platform for elite talent to blossom.

Meanwhile, homegrown young talent continues to impress. Alyssa Thompson of Angel City is a prime example: only 20 years old and already considered one of the emerging stars of the U.S., proof that the league's future-and that of the national team-remains in excellent hands.