The nominations for the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or have been revealed, with England stars Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze earning a place among the 30-player shortlist. The prestigious award, organized by France Football, recognizes the best female footballers in the world and features a strong representation of players from the Women’s Super League (WSL). Joining the England trio on the list are WSL stars Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw, Mariona Caldentey, Sjoeke Nüsken, Mayra Ramírez, and Yui Hasegawa, emphasizing the growing strength of the English top flight.
England’s Bright Lights: Hemp, James, and Bronze
England’s nomination for the Women’s Ballon d’Or reflects the team’s impressive performances in recent international tournaments and showcases the individual brilliance of its key players.
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Lauren Hemp
The dynamic forward for Manchester City and England, has emerged as one of the most exciting attacking talents in world football. Known for her blistering pace, technical ability, and eye for goal, Hemp played a crucial role in England’s strong showing at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where the team reached the final. Hemp’s ability to stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities makes her one of the most dangerous wingers in the game, and her Ballon d’Or nomination is a testament to her growth over the past year.
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Lauren James
The Chelsea and England winger, has risen to prominence with her flair and creativity on the ball. Her dazzling dribbling skills and capacity to score from almost anywhere on the pitch have made her a fan favorite. Although James faced a moment of controversy in the World Cup due to a red card in the knockout stages, she bounced back to contribute significantly to England’s journey in the tournament. At just 22, James’s Ballon d’Or nomination highlights her potential to be a future superstar in women’s football.
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Lucy Bronze
One of the most experienced players on the list, is no stranger to the Ballon d’Or conversation. Having been a stalwart for England and FC Barcelona, Bronze’s versatility and leadership at the right-back position have made her one of the best defenders in the world. Her consistency at both club and international levels, including helping England to Euro 2022 victory and reaching the World Cup final, solidifies her status as one of the sport’s top players. Her inclusion in the shortlist further cements her reputation as one of the game’s greats.
Women’s Super League Talent Shines
The 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or nominations underscore the rising quality of the Women’s Super League (WSL), with several international stars who ply their trade in England making the 30-player shortlist.
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Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw
Manchester City’s prolific Jamaican striker, has been a revelation in the WSL. Shaw’s goalscoring exploits have placed her among the top strikers in the league, and her ability to perform on the biggest stages has made her a key figure for both her club and national team. Her power, pace, and finishing touch have earned her plaudits, and her nomination reflects her growing influence in women’s football.
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Mariona Caldentey
The Spanish midfielder who plays for Barcelona and briefly in the WSL, is another nominee. Caldentey has been a pivotal player in Barcelona’s rise to dominance in Europe, contributing with her creativity and intelligence on the ball. She played a key role in Spain’s 2023 World Cup triumph, and her inclusion on the Ballon d’Or shortlist is well-deserved.
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Sjoeke Nüsken
The German international and Chelsea midfielder, is a player on the rise. Known for her composure and tactical awareness, Nüsken has impressed in both domestic and international competitions. Her ability to control the tempo of a game and break up opposition attacks has made her a standout performer, and her first Ballon d’Or nomination marks a major milestone in her career.
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Mayra Ramírez
, the Colombian striker, who plays for WSL newcomers Aston Villa, has been one of the breakout stars of the season. Her work rate, physicality, and ability to find the back of the net have caught the attention of many, and her inclusion on the Ballon d’Or shortlist is a sign of her rapid rise in European football.
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Yui Hasegawa
The Japanese midfielder who plays for Manchester City, rounds out the WSL’s representation. Hasegawa’s technical ability and vision make her one of the most creative players in the league. Her contributions for both club and country have not gone unnoticed, and she has established herself as a key figure in Manchester City’s midfield.
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