The prestigious Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 shortlist has been announced, showcasing the top talents in women’s football from around the globe. These nominees have dazzled with their performances in domestic leagues, international tournaments, and continental championships. The Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025 highlights not just goal scorers but leaders, creators, and defenders who shaped the 2024-25 season. Below is an in-depth look at Women’s Ballon dOr 2025, based on their impact throughout the season.
10. Melchie Dumornay – Lyon (Haiti)
Melchie Dumornay, the Haitian midfield sensation, has been a rising star at Lyon. Her exceptional dribbling, vision, and creativity made her a standout in the 2024-25 season. Dumornay played a key role in Lyon’s domestic dominance and UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign. Despite her young age, she showed maturity beyond her years, delivering goals and assists consistently.
Her flair and quick feet often left defenders helpless, while her pressing game added steel to Lyon’s midfield. Dumornay’s leadership with Haiti at the international level also earned her praise, helping grow women’s football in the Caribbean. As the youngest nominee on the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 list, she represents the future of the sport. Her all-round performance this season justifies her top 10 spot.
9. Temwa Chawinga – Kansas City Current (Malawi)
Temwa Chawinga made history by becoming the first Malawian to be nominated for the Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025. Representing Kansas City Current in the NWSL, Chawinga has been nothing short of phenomenal. Her pace, positioning, and clinical finishing helped her notch double digits in goals and several key assists this season.
What sets her apart is her consistency under pressure. Whether facing top-tier defenses or delivering in high-stakes games, Chawinga remained composed. She’s also inspired young female athletes back home, making her not just a great player, but a cultural icon. Her inclusion in the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 shortlist is both deserved and historic.
8. Steph Catley – Arsenal (Australia)
Veteran defender Steph Catley has had a remarkable campaign with Arsenal. As a left-back, her contributions went beyond defense—she frequently provided overlapping runs, accurate crosses, and key set-piece deliveries. She was instrumental in Arsenal’s strong performances in the Women’s Super League and UEFA competitions.
Catley’s leadership on and off the pitch was critical for the Gunners and the Australian national team. She captained her side in crucial matches and was a model of composure. Her nomination in the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 is a testament to defenders being recognized for their tactical intelligence, work rate, and influence.
7. Sofia Cantore – Washington Spirit (Italy)
Italian forward Sofia Cantore shone in the NWSL with Washington Spirit this season. Known for her agility and technical finesse, Cantore tormented defenses throughout the campaign. She scored and assisted vital goals, guiding her club into playoff contention and keeping Italy competitive in UEFA qualifiers.
Cantore’s ability to switch wings and operate in central roles made her unpredictable and dangerous. She’s an ideal modern attacker—smart, selfless, and always ready to create space. Her selection in the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 nominations is well-deserved and reflects her growing global reputation.
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6. Mariona Caldentey – Arsenal (Spain)
Mariona Caldentey brought flair, vision, and immense footballing intelligence to Arsenal. She played as both a winger and attacking midfielder, linking up brilliantly with teammates and creating numerous chances. Her ability to control tempo and dictate play made her one of the season’s most valuable assets.
A regular starter for Spain, Caldentey’s performances in both club and country setups have been top-notch. She’s become a pivotal figure in Spain’s creative engine. Her work this season makes her one of the standout candidates for the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025, especially given her role in Arsenal’s resurgence.
5. Klara Buhl – Bayern Munich (Germany)
Germany’s Klara Buhl had an explosive season with Bayern Munich, scoring crucial goals in the Frauen-Bundesliga and UEFA Women’s Champions League. She’s a dynamic winger known for her speed, directness, and powerful shooting. Buhl was key in Bayern’s domestic title push, producing big performances in high-pressure games.
Her ability to beat defenders one-on-one and deliver inch-perfect crosses made her one of the most feared attackers in Europe. She also maintained solid performances with Germany in international fixtures. Buhl’s presence in the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 is recognition of her consistent threat and maturity.
4. Lucy Bronze – Chelsea (England)
Switching to Chelsea this season, Lucy Bronze proved her class once again. One of the most experienced defenders in women’s football, Bronze brought solidity, leadership, and quality to Emma Hayes’ backline. Her performances were crucial in Chelsea’s push for titles on both domestic and European fronts.
Bronze’s athleticism and tactical intelligence allowed her to shut down top wingers while also contributing to build-up play. Her versatility and work ethic stood out throughout the season. As a past Ballon d’Or finalist, Bronze’s continued excellence ensures her place in the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 conversation.
3. Aitana Bonmati – Barcelona (Spain)
Reigning Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati had another masterful season. The Barcelona midfielder controlled games with her passing range, spatial awareness, and goal-scoring ability. She was again the heartbeat of Barcelona’s midfield, helping them retain La Liga F and reach another UWCL final.
Aitana’s intelligence on the ball and calmness under pressure are unmatched. She contributed not only goals but also key interceptions and defensive support. Her influence on Spain’s international setup also continues to grow. As a top contender for the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025, Bonmati remains at the peak of her powers.
2. Barbra Banda – Orlando Pride (Zambia)
Barbra Banda’s move to Orlando Pride proved to be a masterstroke. The Zambian striker delivered a phenomenal season in the NWSL, finishing as one of the top scorers. Her combination of power, pace, and accuracy made her a nightmare for defenders.
Banda’s contribution went beyond stats—she lifted Orlando Pride to new heights and became a global symbol for African excellence in women’s football. Her leadership with the Zambia national team has also drawn praise. Banda is a strong runner-up for the Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025, with many fans calling for her to win.
1. Sandy Baltimore – Chelsea (France)
At the top of the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 shortlist stands Sandy Baltimore. Her sensational season with Chelsea made her the most impactful player of the year. From scoring stunning goals to assisting in key matches, Baltimore was everywhere. Her speed, flair, and technical brilliance were unmatched across all competitions.
She played an essential role in Chelsea’s domestic double and led the French national team with distinction. Baltimore’s influence extended to the Champions League, where she often dictated the pace and outcome of games. This could finally be her year to claim the Women’s Ballon dOr 2025, and few would argue against it.
FAQs
Who are the favorites for Women’s Ballon dOr 2025?
Sandy Baltimore, Barbra Banda, and Aitana Bonmati are seen as the top three contenders based on performance, titles, and influence.
Which club has the most nominees in Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025?
Chelsea leads the list with two players: Sandy Baltimore and Lucy Bronze.
Has anyone from Africa ever won the Women’s Ballon d’Or?
No, but Barbra Banda from Zambia is a strong contender in 2025 and could make history.
What does winning the Women’s Ballon dOr signify?
It recognizes the best female footballer in the world based on club and international performances in a calendar year.
When will the Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025 winner be announced?
The award ceremony is expected to take place in late 2025, typically in October or November.
How is the Women’s Ballon d’Or decided?
Votes are cast by international journalists, national team coaches, and captains based on performance, sportsmanship, and overall contribution to the game.