Lionesses Hemp, James and Bronze Nominated for Women's Ballon d'Or 2023

England Trio Nominated for Women's Ballon d'Or

In a remarkable display of talent and athleticism, England's Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze have been nominated for the prestigious Women's Ballon d'Or. This recognition spotlights their exceptional performance in the Women's Super League (WSL) and their contributions to their respective teams.

Notable Names on the Shortlist

The 30-player shortlist announced by France Football includes several standout players from the WSL, including:

• Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw - Manchester City
• Mariona Caldentey - Barcelona/Arsenal
• Sjoeke Nusken - Chelsea
• Mayra Ramirez - Chelsea
• Yui Hasegawa - Manchester City

Both Bronze and Caldentey played pivotal roles in their teams, winning the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona last season before making significant moves to the WSL, representing Chelsea and Arsenal respectively.

Outstanding Achievements in the WSL

The Women’s Super League has witnessed thrilling competitions and records, with players showcasing their skills consistently throughout the season. Notably, Khadija Shaw from Manchester City emerged as the WSL’s top scorer, although her team narrowly lost the title to Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Lauren James played a significant role in helping Chelsea secure their fifth consecutive WSL trophy under the management of Emma Hayes, who recently transitioned to coaching the US Women’s National Team (USWNT).

Coaching and Team Recognition

In addition to player nominations, a special mention goes to coaches making their mark in women’s football. Emma Hayes and England's Sarina Wiegman are among the five shortlisted candidates for Coach of the Year, alongside the new Chelsea head coach, Sonia Bompastor.

On the team front, Chelsea stands out as one of five clubs nominated for Women's Team of the Year, competing with champions Barcelona, highlighting the increasing competitiveness of women's football.

Complete Shortlist for Women's Ballon d'Or

Here are the nominees for the Women's Ballon d'Or:

• Lauren Hemp - Manchester City
• Trinity Rodman - Washington Spirit
• Barbra Banda - Shanghai RCB/Orlando Pride
• Tarciane Lime - Houston Dash
• Manuela Giugliano - Roma
• Mallory Swanson - Chicago Red Stars
• Glodis Viggosdottir - Bayern Munich
• Mariona Caldentey - Barcelona/Arsenal
• Lauren James - Chelsea
• Patricia Guijarro - Barcelona
• Lea Schuller - Bayern Munich
• Gabi Portilho - Corinthians
• Tabitha Chawinga - PSG
• Caroline Graham Hansen - Barcelona
• Lindsey Horan - Lyon
• Lucy Bronze - Barcelona/Chelsea
• Yui Hasegawa - Manchester City
• Ada Hegerberg - Lyon
• Sjoeke Nusken - Chelsea
• Aitana Bonmati - Barcelona
• Alex Putellas - Barcelona
• Grace Geyoro - PSG
• Khadija Shaw - Manchester City
• Guilia Gwinn - Bayern Munich
• Salma Paralluelo - Barcelona
• Ewa Pajor - Wolfsburg/Barcelona
• Sophie Smith - Portland Thorns
• Marie-Antoinette Katoto - PSG
• Mayra Ramirez - Chelsea
• Alyssa Naeher - Chicago Red Stars

Coaches and Teams Nominated

Highlighting the strategic minds behind these top talents, here are the nominees for Women's Coach of the Year:

• Sonia Bompastor - Chelsea/Lyon
• Arthur Elias - Corinthians/Brazil
• Jonatan Giraldez - Barcelona/Washington Spirit
• Filipa Patao - Benfica
• Sarina Wiegman - England
• Emma Hayes - Chelsea/USWNT

This year's nominations not only celebrate individual brilliance but also highlight the evolution of women’s football, showcasing the incredible talent and competitiveness from across the globe.