The 10 best players in NWSL history ranked

The NWSL is only early into its 13th season, but there have been star players throughout the league since its inception. Here are the top 10 NWSL players of all time.
NY/NJ Gotham FC v Orlando Pride
NY/NJ Gotham FC v Orlando Pride | Ira L. Black - Corbis/GettyImages
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2) Christine Sinclair

Christine Sinclair
Kansas City Current v Portland Thorns FC - 2022 NWSL Championship | Ira L. Black/GettyImages

Christine Sinclair played her last season with the Portland Thorns in 2024. Before retiring, Sinclair had been with the Thorns for her whole career, which spanned from 2014-2024. During her time in Portland, she scored 64 NWSL goals and contributed 13 assists.

Sinclair became a leader for the Thorns, serving as the team's captain for her entire career. She was also captain of Canada's women's national team. Sinclair racked up 195 regular season games for the Thorns, which is the fifth most all-time in the NWSL. She has also scored the most international goals with 190, more than any other man or woman.

1) Marta

Marta
Orlando Pride v Washington Spirit - NWSL 2024 Championship Game | Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/GettyImages

Marta, quite obviously, takes the top spot. The Brazilian has brought so much to the game in America. She is hands down the greatest female player of all time. But what makes her so great?

Marta has always been a leader, both on and off the field. She is a six-time winner of the FIFA World Player of the Year award, which is more than any other player, male or female. She also has the highest number of goals in the Women's World Cup with 17 goals.

Marta's career has stretched for over two decades, which shows the longevity that she has. Even at age 39, Marta is versatile, strong, and accurate. The 2025 season is her seventh season in the NWSL with the Orlando Pride, where she will forever be a club legend.