NWSL dominates global rankings with 13 stars among the world’s best players in 2024

With 13 athletes ranked among the top 50 female soccer players in the world by ESPN FC, the NWSL is once again very relevant at an international level. This mix of talent across the eight clubs speaks volumes about competitive balance and high technical level that the league possesses, luring some of the best players on the planet.

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NWSL Stars among top 50

Among the 13 NWSL players selected, each has their own story of making an impact on and off the pitch. Ranging from Esther González, the Gotham FC forward who ranked at No. 50 to a stunning second place from Naomi Girma of San Diego Wave FC, this ranking gives context to the depth of the talent the league can offer. Girma is widely viewed by many as one of the best defenders in the world, and her mixture of tactical intelligence with athleticism really sets her apart.

Then there is the presence of the legendary Marta of Orlando Pride, who comes in at 26th. At 38 years old, the Brazilian icon is still a technical and emotional leader as Orlando claims its first NWSL Shield-a proof that Marta has continued to lead and shine bright, and age is certainly no bar to her contribution to the game.

Up-and-Coming Stars and Young Talent

In addition to veterans like Marta, the rankings celebrate emerging players like 21-year-old Houston Dash defender Tarciane, ranked 45th, who has already shown maturity and versatility to become a cornerstone for her club and the Brazilian national team.

Other notables include Trinity Rodman of Washington Spirit at No. 8. With her speed, skill and impact, Rodman accounted for 14 goals this season-8 goals and 6 assists-and has proven to be one of the league's most electrifying players. Her value on both sides of the ball makes her indispensable to the Spirit.

NWSL Offensive Leaders

The NWSL is not short of defenders and midfielders, and the forwards are just as stellar. Temwa Chawinga, a player for Kansas City Current ranked 19th, is rewriting what has been thought of as a prolific goal-scorer in the league. Chawinga made history with a record 20 goals this season, becoming the first player to score against every NWSL team in one season.

Meanwhile, number three goes to Orlando Pride's Barbra Banda. A 15-goal scorer and six assists this season, and one who made history at the Paris Olympics with Zambia, Banda encapsulates what the NWSL means internationally and the impact it can have.

The presence of so many NWSL players in this ranking serves to illustrate the league's place as a hub for global talent. To international athletes, the NWSL offers a high level of competition whereby playing against some of the best in the world is customary. This environment provides a perfect opportunity for players such as Portland Thorns' Sophia Smith, ranked fifth in this ranking, to further elevate their game.

Smith is a star forward and has netted 12 goals with six assists in her team this season, playing a significant role in the Portland success, while her pace and technical skills remain an awe to many both in the NWSL and in the U.S. Women's National Team.

Diversity powers NWSL

A ranking of the world's best players provides a poignant reminder of how the NWSL has shaped women's soccer worldwide. It is in the NWSL that veterans and new stars are popping up, shining alongside international talents, making it far more than a showcase stage on which captivating stories unfold.

The NWSL invests in attracting, developing, and highlighting players all over the world, making the league relevant and ever-growing. It also places the NWSL as the leading ladies soccer league while women's soccer keeps expanding its reach.