The race for the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 is heating up with every passing match as Europe’s top stars and Africa’s rising talents battle it out on international and club stages. With the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in full swing, form is constantly shifting. Arsenal’s shock UEFA Women’s Champions League victory over Barcelona and standout international displays have reshaped the rankings.
The Women Ballon d’Or 2025 will be awarded on September 22, and voters will consider both domestic and international performances. Let’s break down the top 10 power-ranked contenders as things stand.
10. Caroline Graham Hansen
- Club: Barcelona | Goals: 14 | Assists: 12
- International Form: 1 Euro 2025 goal
Last year’s runner-up, Graham Hansen, has seen a significant dip in numbers this season, falling from 26 goals and 23 assists to 14 and 12 respectively. Despite a quiet Euro 2025 showing so far, her potential to lead Norway deep into the tournament still leaves the door open for a late surge. In a competition as fierce as the Women Ballon d’Or, even a quiet season for a proven star like Graham Hansen keeps her within striking distance of the crown—especially if Norway makes a surprise run.
9. Stina Blackstenius
- Club: Arsenal
- Euro Goals: 2 (group stage)
- Key Impact: Helped Arsenal clinch the Champions League
Blackstenius was instrumental in Arsenal’s surprise European glory. With two important goals in the Euro 2025 group stages, including a decisive strike against Germany, the Swedish forward’s stock is rapidly rising. A deeper Sweden run could elevate her even higher.With every match that counts towards Women Ballon d’Or 2025 calculations, Blackstenius continues to tick all the boxes for club success and international form.
8. Ewa Pajor
- Club: Barcelona | Goals: 32 | Assists: 11
- Euro Contribution: 1 goal for Poland
Pajor exploded in her first season with Barcelona after her move from Wolfsburg. She adapted quickly to Spanish football, scoring 32 goals across domestic and European competitions. Despite Poland’s early Euro exit, her individual numbers remain elite.For the Women Ballon d’Or, numbers matter—and Pajor’s staggering goal tally ensures she remains firmly in the conversation.
7. Sandy Baltimore
- Club: Chelsea | Goals: 2 goals (FA Cup final)
- Versatility: Excelled even when played out of position
Baltimore is Chelsea’s standout candidate this season. Playing out of position didn’t stop her from shining, particularly when she scored a brace in the FA Cup final. Her early Euro 2025 performances with France further highlight her versatility and value.Although not the biggest name in the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 race, Baltimore is a true dark horse whose stock continues to rise with each outing.
Also Read: Top 10 Longest Goal Scoring Streaks in Football History
6. Aitana Bonmati
- Club: Barcelona
- Previous Wins: 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or
- Euro Setback: Missed start due to illness
Bonmati’s bid for a historic third consecutive title has been dampened by illness that delayed her Euro 2025 campaign. However, her talent is undeniable, and she remains one of the most complete players in the game.Whether she retains the Women Ballon d’Or or not, Bonmati’s consistent excellence keeps her in the spotlight as one of football’s modern greats.
5. Claudia Pina
- Clubs: Barcelona | Goals: 20 | Assists: 8
- Key Moment: Match‑winner against England in the Nations League
Pina was Barcelona’s top scorer in the Champions League and has been influential in Spain’s matches, including a key brace against England. With her consistent form, Pina is a rising star in the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 race, building momentum as Euro progresses.
4. Mariona Caldentey
- Club: Arsenal | Goals: 16 goals | Assists: 7 assists
- Primary Role: Arsenal’s standout player in UWCL campaign
Caldentey seamlessly adapted to English football, producing crucial goals and assists that helped Arsenal win the Champions League. Though her Euro start has been quieter, she remains a strong contender for the Women Ballon d’Or 2025, especially if she sparks in the knockout rounds.
3. Barbra Banda
- Club: Orlando Pride/Zambia
- NWSL Playoffs: 4 goals
- AFCON Record: 3 goals in 3 matches
Banda is this year’s breakout star. She helped Orlando Pride to the NWSL title and has started AFCON 2025 in style, scoring in every match so far. A deep run with Zambia could catapult her into the top two.No African player has ever won the Women Ballon d’Or 2025, but Banda might rewrite that history if she continues this extraordinary form.
2. Alessia Russo
- Club: Arsenal
- League Form: WSL top scorer
- Champions League: 2nd highest scorer
- Euro Role: Key goalkeeper in England’s tournament resurgence
Russo closed the season strongly, excelling in both league and Champions League play. After a tough start at Euro 2025, she has regained form, leading England’s resurgence. If those performances continue, she could become the first Englishwoman to win the Women Ballon d’Or.
1. Alexia Putellas
- Club: Barcelona
- Euro Stats: 7 goals + assists (so far)
- Previous Awards: 2021, 2022 Ballon d’Or winner
Putellas is back in peak condition and has taken over Euro 2025 with commanding displays. Although Barcelona missed out on European glory, her domestic dominance and international form have made her the frontrunner once again.If the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 were handed out today, it would be hard to look beyond Putellas, who is once again setting the standard for the world’s best.
FAQs
Q1: When will the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 be announced?
A: The award ceremony will take place on September 22, 2025.
Q2: Who is leading the Women Ballon d’Or 2025 race?
A: Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas is currently leading the race.
Q3: Who are the top Arsenal contenders?
A: Alessia Russo, Mariona Caldentey, and Stina Blackstenius are all in the top 10.
Q4: Is there any African player in the top rankings?
A: Yes, Barbra Banda from Zambia and Orlando Pride is currently ranked third.
Q5: Can NWSL players realistically win the award?
A: Historically rare, but a major international tournament run, like Banda’s, can change that.