10 MOST FAMOUS WOMEN SOCCER PLAYERS OF ALL TIME 2023

The popularity of women’s football, also known as soccer in the United States, has been on a steady rise over the years. Many remarkable football players have utilized their natural ability and skill to climb to the sport’s top. From Hanna Ljungberg of Sweden and Sam Kerr of Australia to Louisa Necib of France, and not forgetting the United States’ Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe, numerous incredibly talented female football players have left an indelible mark in the sport’s history.

This article narrows down 10 of the most famous women soccer players of all time, analyzing their careers and accomplishments. These women have consistently demonstrated their exceptional talent and unwavering determination on the field, establishing themselves as some of the best female footballers in the annals of the sport.

10. MICHELLE AKERS, USA

Born on February 1, 1966, in Santa Clara, California, Michelle Akers is a renowned figure in women’s soccer. Initially recognized as a formidable striker, Akers had to adapt her playing style to that of a defensive midfielder after being diagnosed with chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome. This transition proved to be a defining moment in her career.

As a midfielder, Akers showcased her exceptional game-reading abilities and remarkable skills in intercepting passes. Her presence on the field was instrumental in the success of the United States women’s soccer team (USWNT), with whom she clinched two Women’s World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal. Akers’ contributions to the sport have left an enduring impact.

In 2022, the Orlando Pride made an exciting announcement, revealing Akers as an assistant coach for the ’22 season. This new role allows her to continue sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with upcoming talents, further contributing to the growth and development of the sport.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Akers was a member of the first-ever U.S. women’s national football team in 1985.
She scored the first-ever women’s U.S. national team goal in a draw with Denmark.
At the 1991 FIFA World Cup, she won the Golden Shoe as the top scorer, with 10 goals.
She helped the USA win the 1991 FIFA World Cup, the Olympic gold in 1996, and the World Cup 1999.
Akers retired at 34 due to illness, scoring 105 times in 153 international games.
She is a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
In 2002, she was named FIFA Female Player of the Century along with China’s Sun Wen.

9. ALEX MORGAN, USA

Born on July 2, 1989, in San Dimas, California, Alex Morgan is a one of the Most Famous Women Soccer Players in the world . She is a striker and captain for San Diego Wave F.C. in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the U.S. women’s national team.

Morgan made her mark at a young age, becoming the youngest Player on the national team at just 22 during the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her impressive skills as a striker have earned her widespread recognition. Known for her exceptional scoring ability, Morgan consistently finds the back of the net with precision and finesse.

Morgan’s contributions go beyond just scoring goals. Her game intelligence and understanding of the sport elevate her performances to another level. She possesses an innate ability to read the game, make strategic decisions, and contribute to her team’s success. Furthermore, Morgan’s teamwork skills are highly regarded, as she combines her brilliance with a collaborative approach on the field.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

She scored the match-winning goal at the 2012 London Olympics in the 123rd minute of the semifinal match against Canada.
In 2012, she was named U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year and was a FIFA World Player of the Year finalist.
Alex Morgan was a key team member when they won the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup titles.
In 2015, she was ranked by Timetime as the top-paid American women’s soccer player due to her many endorsement deals.
She won the Silver Boot in 2019.
She was named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People of 2019 and 2022.
She’s won ESPY Award Best Female Athlete (2019), Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year (2012), CONCACAF Player of the Year (2013, 2016, 2017, 2018), CONCACAF Women’s Championship Golden Boot (2018), U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year (2012, 2018), The Best FIFA Women’s Player (2019), FIFA Women’s World Cup Silver Boot (2019), and CONCACAF Women’s Championship Golden Ball (2022).

8. HOMARE SAWA, JAPAN

Homare Sawa was born on September 6, 1978, in Fuchū, Tokyo, destined to leave an indelible mark on the football field. This former Japanese footballer, known for her exceptional skills as an attacking midfielder, graced the Japan women’s national team from 1993 to 2015.

Sawa’s illustrious career extended beyond the national team, as she showcased her talent and dedication in professional club football for over two decades. She predominantly represented Nippon T.V. Beleza and INAC Kobe Leonessa, enduringly impacting the clubs she graced.

One of Sawa’s most remarkable achievements came as the captain of the Japanese team that triumphed in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup. This victory brought immense pride to her nation and solidified her status as a true legend in the sport.

Sawa’s playing style was characterized by finesse, vision, and elegance. Her graceful presence on the field captivated audiences worldwide as she effortlessly orchestrated attacks and mesmerized spectators with her exceptional skills.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Sawa retired at 37, collecting 83 goals and 205 caps in 204 appearances, both Japanese records.
She helped win the East Asian Football Championship (2008, 2010), the Olympic silver medal (2011), the Asian Games gold medal (2010), AFC Women’s Asian Cup (2014), and FIFA Women’s World Cup (2011).
At the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2011, she won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best Player and was named FIFA World Player of the Year (2011).
She was named to the Asian Football Hall of Fame in 2014.

7. HOPE SOLO, USA

Born on July 30, 1981, in Richland, Washington, Hope Solo has established herself as an iconic figure in women’s soccer. As a former goalkeeper for the USA national team, Solo’s contributions to the sport are remarkable.

Throughout her career, Solo has donned the jerseys of various renowned clubs, including Philadelphia Charge, Olympic Lyonnaise in France, Saint Louis Athletica, Atlanta Beat, and Seattle Reign. She has left an indelible mark on the field, setting numerous records. These include the most international appearances (202), starts (190), wins (153), shutouts (102), and the longest undefeated streak (55 games).

While Solo’s journey hasn’t been without controversies and off-field challenges, such as a six-month suspension, assault charges, and drug offenses, her talent as a goalkeeper remains undeniable. Her exceptional skills between the posts have solidified her position as one of the world’s best women’s soccer players. Solo’s prowess and achievements have rightfully earned her a place among the greatest goalkeepers of all time that women’s soccer ever produced.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Hope Solo helped her team win the 2015 World Cup and gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics.
She holds the U.S. record for most career clean sheets.
At the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she won the Golden Glove award for best goalkeeper and the Bronze Ball award for overall performance.
She helped her team win the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the team’s third title since 1991, CONCACAF Women’s Championship (2006, 2014), Four Nations Tournament (2006, 2007, 2008), and the Algarve Cup (2005, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015).
Her individual awards include U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year (2009), CONCACAF Women’s Championship Golden Glove (2014), CONCACAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year (2015), FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove (2011, 2015), and IFFHS World’s Best Woman Goalkeeper (2012-2015).
Hope Solo wrote a bestselling autobiography titled “Solo: A Memoir of Hope” and participated in “Dancing with the Stars.”

6. SUN WEN, CHINA

Sun Wen, one of the most famous women soccer players of all time, was born on April 6, 1973, in Shanghai, China. As a former professional soccer player, Wen’s exceptional skills and achievements have left an indelible mark on the sport. She was a forward for the China national team, and the Atlanta Beat of the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA).

Wen scored over 100 goals in 152 international matches throughout her illustrious career, showcasing her unrivaled talent.

During China’s golden age of soccer, Sun Wen stood out as a key player, driving her team to success with her exceptional abilities. Her contributions on the field played a pivotal role in China’s rise in women’s soccer. Today, she is revered as one of the greatest female soccer players ever.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Sen Wen won FIFA Female Player of the Century along with Michelle Akers in 2000.
She won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
She helped the China national team win a silver medal at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics and finish second at the 1999 World Cup.
Sun Wen was the first woman nominated for the Asian Football Confederation Player of the Year award.

5. BIRGIT PRINZ, GERMANY

Birgit Prinz, born on October 25, 1977, in Frankfurt, Germany, is a former German professional footballer who made significant contributions to the sport. Throughout her career, she represented the German national team and notable clubs, such as FFC Frankfurt in the Frauen-Bundesliga and Carolina Courage in the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA).

Prinz’s remarkable skills as a striker propelled her to exceptional achievements, including winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup twice. Her talent and dedication earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious FIFA World Player of the Year award she received thrice.

Retiring in 2011, Prinz is widely regarded as one of the Most Famous Women Soccer Players, known for her precision, speed, and exceptional goal-scoring abilities. Her contributions to the game have left an enduring legacy, inspiring players and fans.

Birgit Prinz’s impact on the sport is undeniably significant. Her success, technical abilities, and athleticism have solidified her place among the all-time greats of women’s soccer.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

She is the second (to Marta from Brazil) FIFA Women’s World Cup all-time leading scorer, with 14 goals.
Birgit Prinz played five World Cups, won the title for Germany in 2003 and 2007, and was runner-up in 1999.
She helped win the European Championship for Germany five times.
Prinz won three Olympics bronze medals with Germany.
She was named German Player of the Year eight times in a row.
She managed one goal per game for her clubs FSV, FFC Frankfurt, and Carolina Courage over an 18-year career.
Prinz holds a national record, playing for Germany 214 times and scoring 128 goals.
She helped her team win the German Cup (eight times), Bundesliga (seven times), UEFA Women’s Cup (2001, 2005, 2007), WUSA Championship (2002), FIFA World Cup (2003, 2007), UEFA European Championship (five times), and Olympic bronze medal (2000, 2004, 2008).
Prinz holds many individual honors and awards, including FIFA World Player of the Year (2003, 2004, 2005), German Player of the Year (eight times), UEFA Women’s Championship Golden Player (1995), Golden Ball (2003), FIFA Women’s World Cup top scorer (2003), and Silver Ball (2007)

4. CHRISTINE SINCLAIR, CANADA

Christine Sinclair, born on June 12, 1983, in Burnaby, British Columbia, is a highly accomplished Canadian professional soccer player who has made significant contributions to the sport. Playing as a forward, she not only captains the Canadian national team but also showcases her skills in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) as a member of Portland Thorns FC.

Sinclair’s achievements include being a CONCACAF champion and earning an Olympic gold medal and two Olympic bronze medals. Her exceptional abilities on the field have garnered recognition from fellow players, with Abby Wambach referring to her as “the best all-around player in the world.”

One of Sinclair’s most notable accomplishments is her position as the world’s all-time leading goal scorer for international matches, regardless of gender, with an impressive tally of 190 goals.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Sinclair is a 14-time Canada Soccer Player of the Year award winner.
She is one of the most-capped active international footballers, with more than 300 caps.
In 2013, Sinclair was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.
Sinclair has played over 20 seasons, four Olympics, and five FIFA Women’s World Cups.
In 2022, she was awarded the Best FIFA Special Award as the world’s all-time leading scorer.
She helped her team win the CONCACAF Women’s Championship (2010), the Summer Olympics gold medal (2021), the Olympic bronze medal (2012, 2016), and the Pan American Games (2011).
Her individual awards include International Top Scorer, Canadian Player of the Decade, Canadian Player of the Year (14 times), Bobbie Rosenfeld Award (2012), Lou Marsh Award (2012), Olympic Golden Boot (2012), and the Best FIFA Special Award for Outstanding Career.

3. ABBY WAMBACH, USA

Abby Wambach, born on June 2, 1980, in Rochester, New York, is a retired professional American soccer player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her accomplishments include being a six-time winner of the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award and earning a well-deserved place in the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

Throughout her career, Wambach represented the U.S. national team and showcased her skills at the professional club level, playing for notable teams such as Washington Freedom, magicJack, and the Western New York Flash.

She was renowned for her unstoppable goal-scoring ability, technical prowess, and precise heading skills. Additionally, her physical strength and numerous assists further solidified her status as a formidable player.

Wambach’s aggressive and passionate style of play made her a beloved figure among fans. Her contributions on the field garnered admiration, and her impressive career led to her establishment as one of the world’s most famous women soccer players.

Having announced her retirement in 2015, Wambach has since taken on the role of a soccer spokesperson. Her influence and reputation extend beyond the field, making her an influential figure in the sport

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

She is the highest all-time goal-scorer for the U.S. national team.
With 184 international goals, she is second to Canadian Christine Sinclair in international goals for both male and female soccer players.
Wambach was awarded the 2012 FIFA World Player of the Year and was included on the 2015 Time list of 100 Most Influential People Worldwide.
She competed in four FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments (winning in 2015) and two Olympics tournaments (winning gold in 2004 and 2012).
One of her most memorable goals was at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal match against Brazil. In the 122nd minute, she scored an equalizer goal in stoppage time, the latest goal ever scored in a match. This goal was essential in pushing the U.S. to the World Cup final against Japan.
She won the 2011 ESPN ESPY Award for Best Play of the Year, Bronze Boot (2011), Silver Ball (2011), U.S. Soccer Federation’s U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award (six times), Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year (2012), FIFA World Player of the Year (2012), WPS Player of the Week (seven times), and the first-ever soccer player named Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press.
Her autobiography, “Forward,” and second book, “Wolfpack: How to Come Together, Unleash Our Power, and Change the Game,” were both New York Times bestsellers.

2. MARTA, BRAZIL

Marta Vieira da Silva, known simply as Marta, was born on February 19, 1986, in Dois Riachos, Alagoas, Brazil. She currently serves as a forward for the Orlando Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and proudly represents the Brazilian national team.

Brazil has long been recognized as the birthplace of extraordinary footballers, both male and female. While Pelé is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, Marta has rightfully claimed the spotlight by being honored as the FIFA World Player of the Year an impressive six times.

Marta’s exceptional talent has propelled her to achieve remarkable feats in the sport. She made history as the first Player, regardless of gender, to score in five World Cup finals. Her incredible dribbling skills, imaginative goal-scoring ability, and captivating flair on the field have earned her the well-deserved nickname of “Pelé in skirts.”

Watching Marta play is an absolute delight for football enthusiasts. Her mastery of the game, coupled with her captivating style of play, makes her one of the most thrilling players to watch.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Marta has been named FIFA World Player of the Year six times.
At the 2019 World Cup in France, she set a record as the first Player (male or female) to score in five different World Cup finals.
She is the highest FIFA World Cup goal-scorer of all time (male or female), with 17 goals in the FIFA World Cup.
Marta is Brazil’s top international goal-scorer (male or female), with over 100 goals.
She helped her team win the silver medals at the 2005 and 2008 Summer Olympics, Pan American Games (2003, 2007) (Brazil national team), the UEFA Women’s Cup, and seven Swedish league championships (at the club level).
She has won many awards, including the Golden Ball (2004, FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship), Golden Boot (2007 World Cup), Golden Ball (2007 World Cup), Damallsvenskan Top Scorer (2004, 2005, 2008), Sports Illustrated Top 20 Female Athletes of the Decade (No. 7), IFFHS World’s Best Woman Playmaker (2012), and IFFHS World’s Best Woman Player of the Decade.

1. MIA HAMM, USA–MOST FAMOUS WOMEN SOCCER PLAYERS OF ALL TIME

Mia Hamm is on number one spot in our list of TOP 10 MOST FAMOUS WOMEN SOCCER PLAYERS OF ALL TIME . Originally named Mariel Margaret Hamm, was born in Selma, Alabama, on March 17, 1972. She made a significant impact as a forward for the United States Women’s national soccer team (USWNT) from 1987 to 2004, leaving an enduring legacy in the sport.

Hamm’s achievements include being a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. She held the record for the most international goals until surpassed, showcasing her exceptional talent and goal-scoring prowess.

Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Hamm became an influential figure in the sport as the face of the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA), the first professional women’s soccer league in the United States. Her involvement elevated her to the status of a cultural icon in soccer.

Pelé, in his esteemed FIFA 100 list, recognized Hamm’s remarkable contributions to the game, including her teammate Michelle Akers, as two of FIFA’s 125 greatest living players. Hamm’s impact was not limited to the field; she transcended the sport and garnered substantial media attention, establishing herself as the first international superstar of women’s soccer.

Recognizing her immense influence and achievements, Hamm was the first female star to be inducted into the World Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as a trailblazer and role model for future generations of female soccer players.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

Hamm competed in four FIFA World Cup tournaments, including the first inaugural women’s competition in 1991 and three Olympic Games (1996, 2000, 2004). The 1996 Summer Olympics was also the first time women’s soccer was included in the Olympic program.
Hamm won two FIFA World Cup titles (1991 and 1999) and two Olympic gold medals (1996, 2004).
She was named FIFA World Player of the Year (2001, 2002), U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year (five years in a row), Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year (1997, 1999)
Hamm was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame and the Alabama, Texas, and North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
She was the first woman inducted into the World Football Hall of Fame.
In 2000, she won the No. 3 spot for the FIFA Female Player of the Century Award, behind Sun Wen and Michelle Akers.
Retiring in 2004, she finished with a then-world record of 158 international goals.
She is co-owner of Los Angeles FC and a global ambassador for F.C. Barcelona.
She had numerous sponsorship and endorsement deals, including a video game, countless commercials, documentaries, and more.

MOST FAMOUS WOMEN SOCCER PLAYERS OF ALL TIME-FAQS

HOW HAVE THEY INSPIRED OTHER FEMALE ATHLETES?

Female soccer players have been a source of inspiration for other female athletes. They have demonstrated the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience in achieving success.
As role models in their respective sports, female soccer players have inspired other female athletes to strive for excellence and never give up on their dreams. They have shown that it is possible to reach the highest levels of professional sport with passion and determination.
Moreover, they have also helped to raise awareness for gender equality in sports by highlighting the achievements of women within this traditionally male-dominated domain.

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF WOMEN’S SOCCER?

Women’s soccer has a long and rich history. The first women’s soccer club was founded in England in 1894, and the first women’s international match was played in 1897. Women’s soccer has grown in popularity recently, and the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup was the most-watched women’s sporting event in history.

WHY IS WOMEN’S SOCCER NOT AS POPULAR AS MEN’S SOCCER?

There are several reasons why women’s soccer is not as popular as men’s soccer. One reason is that women’s soccer has not been around for as long as men’s. Another reason is that women’s soccer receives different media coverage than men’s. Finally, women’s soccer players are paid less than men’s.

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF WOMEN’S SOCCER?

The future of women’s soccer is bright. The sport is growing in popularity, and women soccer players are making a name for themselves on the world stage. With continued support, women’s soccer has the potential to become one of the most popular sports in the world.