Greatest Women’s Soccer Players of All Time

The best women soccer players of all time come from all over the world.

The first women’s soccer World Cup was held in China in 1991, and in less than 30 years, the game has developed a rich and storied history.

Players from all over the globe amaze us with their ability on the pitch and captivate us with their lives away from the game. They are superstar athletes on par with any other sport in the world. But what separates the best in women’s soccers from the rest?

It’s a combination of individual glory and honors with team accomplishments on the club and international level. These are the greatest women’s soccer players of all time.

25. Louisa Necib

France’s Louisa Necib, left, in a 2009 Women’s European Championship quarterfinal match against the Netherlands in Tampere, Finland. Matthias Schrader / AP Photo

Country: France

Position: Midfielder

Years played: 2004-16

Teams: CNFE Clairefontaine (2004-06), French national team (2005-16), Montpelier (2006-07), Lyon (2007-16)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup All-Star, UNFPA Women’s Player of the Year

Bottom Line: Louisa Necib

Louisa Necib played for the French national team for 11 years. Frank Augstein / AP Photo

Louisa Necib, labeled by the French press as the “Female Zidane” — a reference to French star Zinedine Zidane — was an electric playmaker who competed in two Women’s World Cups and the Summer Olympics for France.

Necib’s greatest asset as a player was her ability to play her position in so many ways and do it all expertly, showing she can transition between attack, as a central or deep-lying midfielder.

Despite France’s struggles in international play, Necib was a winner on the club level and played on three UEFA Women’s Champions League teams.

In Their Own Words: Louisa Necib

Louisa Necib had over 170 international appearances for France. Mike Carlson / AP Photo

“By age 29, Louisa Necib-Cadamuro had crafted a sparkling career. She was a mainstay on the French national team and accumulated several French Division 1 and Champions League titles with dominant professional side Olympique Lyonnais féminin. She was one of the best players on the planet; cunning, skillful, and equipped with a wicked long-range shot.” —The Athletic

24. Briana Scurry

United States goalkeeper Brianna Scurry in action against Brazil during a 2007 Women’s World Cup semifinal match in Hangzhou, China. Greg Baker / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Goalkeeper

Years played: 1989-2010

Teams: University of Massachusetts (1989-93), U.S. women’s national team (1994-2008), Atlanta Beat (2001-03), Washington Freedom (2009-10)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Briana Scurry

Briana Scurry helped lead the United States to a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics. Luca Bruno / AP Photo

Briana Scurry was named National Goalkeeper of the Year as a senior at the University of Massachusetts in 1993 and joined the U.S. women’s national team the next year.

Curry started 159 times in 173 appearances for the USWNT and also was the WUSA Goalkeeper of the Year in 2003. Her shining moment came as the goalie for the USWNT during its legendary win at the 1999 Women’s World Cup, where she posted four shutouts.

How great an athlete was Scurry? She almost left soccer to take a shot at playing in the WNBA, and always stated that basketball was her first love growing up in Minnesota.

In Their Own Words: Briana Scurry

Briana Scurry became a coach after her playing days. Bill Kostroun / AP Photo

“A champion is someone who does not settle for that day’s practice, that day’s competition, that day’s performance. They are always striving to be better. They don’t live in the past.” —Briana Scurry

23. Christie Pearce (Rampone)

U.S. defender Christie Pearce, left, heads the ball against Norway during a soccer game at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics. Ricardo Mazalan / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Defender

Years played: 1993-2017

Teams: Monmouth University (1993-96), U.S. women’s national team (1997-2015), Central Jersey Splash (1997), Buffalo FFillies (1998), New Jersey Lady Stallions (1998), New York Power (2001-03), Sky Blue FC (2009-10, 2013-17), magicJack (2011)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, three-time Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Christie Pearce (Rampone)

Christie Pearce played in five Women’s World Cups. Rusty Kennedy / AP Photo

Christy Pearce began to grab headlines as a three-sport star at Monmouth University in basketball, soccer and lacrosse.

She played in five Women’s World Cups and four Summer Olympics for the USWMNT. Pearce made history in 2015 when she became the oldest woman to play in a Women’s World Cup final — or any tournament game — at 40 years old and 11 days.

Pearce notably led Sky Blue FC to the 2009 WPS championship and was named the 2009 WPS Sportswoman of the Year, later revealing she was three months pregnant during the entire playoff run.

In Their Own Words: Christie Pearce (Rampone)

Christie Pearce played in a World Cup game when she was 40. John Marshall Mantel / AP Photo

“I never want to let my teammates or coaches down, so I always fight through the days when I am exhausted.” —Christie Rampone

22. Bente Nordby

Norway goalkeeper Bente Nordby defending her team’s goal at the 2007 Women’s World Cup in Shanghai, China. Greg Baker / AP Photo

Country: Norway

Position: Goalkeeper

Years played: 1991-2007

Teams: Norwegian national team (1991-2007), Sprint-Jeloy (1995), Athene Moss (1996-2000), Carolina Courage (2001), San Diego Spirit (2001), Kolboton IL (2002-04), Asker FK (2005), Djurgardens (2006-07), Olympique Lyonnais (2008-09)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Bente Nordby

Bente Nordby, right, played in a record five Women’s World Cups. Michel Lipchitz / AP Photo

Bente Nordby is tied with Americans Kristine Lilly and Christie Pearce for the most Women’s World Cups with five each.

Nordby helped lead Norway to a stunning upset of the United States on the way to winning the 1995 Women’s World Cup and followed that up with a gold medal at the 2000 Sumer Olympics.

She was named Swedish Goalkeeper of the Year in 2007, her final season. She was also nominated for FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year four times, in 2001, 2004, 2005 and 2007.

In Their Own Words: Bente Nordby

Bente Nordby won Olympic gold with Norway at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. Kin Cheung / AP Photo

“Nordby retires after having long been hailed as one of the best goalkeepers to ever play the game since helping Norway win the 1995 FIFA Women’s World Cup and 2000 Olympic gold.” —UEFA.com

21. Joy Fawcett

United States defender Joy Fawcett attempts a shot on goal against China during the 1999 Women’s World Cup final at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Kevork Djansezian / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Defender

Years played: 1987-2004

Teams: U.S. women’s national team (1987-2004), University of California, Berkeley (1987-91), San Diego Spirit (2001-03)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Joy Fawcett

Joy Fawcett, left, is arguably the greatest defender in U.S. women’s soccer history. Luca Bruno / AP Photo

Perhaps the greatest defender in the history of the U.S. women’s national team, Joy Fawcett was a three-time All-American at Cal and joined the USWMNT in 1987, just two years after its inception.

She helped lead the team to the championship in the first Women’s World Cup in 1991, then played every minute of the 1995, 1999 and 2003 Women’s World Cups, as well as the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics — a stretch in which she also gave birth to three children.

Fawcett coached the UCLA women’s soccer team from 1993 to 1997.

In Their Own Words: Joy Fawcett

Fawcett coached the UCLA women’s soccer team in the 1990s. Karl DeBlaker / AP Photo

“Each game I would set three goals, and win or lose that’s what I would check on after the game. To see if I was meeting those standards.” —Joy Fawcett

20. Tiffeny Milbrett

U.S. forward Tiffeny Milbrett advances the ball during an all-star exhibition game in 1999 in San Jose, California. Susan Ragan / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Forward

Years played: 1990-2010

Teams: University of Portland (1990-94), U.S. women’s national team (1991-2006), Shiroki F.C. Serena (1995-97), New York Power (2001-03), Sunnana SK (2005), Vancouver Whitecaps (2006-08), Linkopings FC (2006-07), FC Gold Pride (2009-10), Bay Area Breeze (2011)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Tiffeny Milbrett

Tiffeny Milbrett was a three-time All-American at the University of Portland. Steve Helber / AP Photo

Oregon native Tiffeny Milbrett stayed local and was a three-time All-American at the University of Portland, where she finished her career with 103 goals.

Milbrett scored the game-winning goal for the U.S. in the Olympic finals in 1996, then led the U.S. in goals during its historic Women’s World Cup victory in 1999.

She also was named the WUSA Most Valuable Player in 2001 and is one of just a handful of players to score 100 goals in international competition.

In Their Own Words: Tiffeny Milbrett

Tiffeny Milbrett was on the U.S. women’s national team from 1991 to 2006. Joe Cavaretta / AP Photo

“I am somebody who … I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I need that freedom, that ability to make mistakes out there. Because there’s a fine line between making a mistake or being brilliant.” —Tiffeny Milbrett

19. Julie Fleeting

San Diego Spirit striker Julie Fleeting dives for a header against the New York Power in 2003. Denis Poroy / AP Photo

Country: Scotland

Position: Striker

Years played: 1996-2016

Teams: Scottish national team (1996-present), Ayr United Ladies (1996-2002), San Diego Spirit (2002-03), Ross County Ladies (2003), Arsenal Ladies (2004-12), Valur (2006), Kilwinning Ladies (2013), Celtic Ladies (2013-15), Glasgow City (2015-16)

Key stats: UEFA Women’s Cup champion, Scottish Football Hall of Fame

Bottom Line: Julie Fleeting

Julie Fleeting’s father and uncles were all either professional or amateur soccer players in Scotland. Tom Hevezi / AP Photo

Julie Fleeting came from a soccer family in Scotland, with her father and uncles all professional or amateur players. And she was tougher for it — she played with boys teams until mixed playing was banned when she was 12 years old.

She scored an incredible 106 goals in 121 caps and has played for the Scottish national team for 23 years, earning the nickname “Air Scotland” because of her ability to control any ball that went through the air.

In 2008, Prince Charles appointed Fleeting as a Member of the Order of the British Empire, and she was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

In Their Own Words: Julie Fleeting

Julie Fleeting is in the Scottish Hall of Fame. BoroHistory / Twitter

–Julie Fleeting, UWS Newsroom

18. Julie Foudy

U.S. midfielder Julie Foudy leaps over Brazil’s Maria De Souza Diaz to control the ball during a 2000 Women’s Gold Cup match in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Steven Senne / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Midfielder

Years played: 1987-2004

Teams: U.S. women’s national team (1987-2004), Stanford University (1989-92), Sacramento Storm (1993, 1995-98), Tyreso FF (1994), San Diego Spirit (2001-03)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Julie Foudy

Julie Foudy, right, was on the U.S. Women’s national team roster by the time she was 16 years old. Tom Hevezi / AP Photo

San Diego native Julie Foudy was on the U.S. women’s national team by the time she was 16 years old and earning back-to-back All-American honors at Mission Viejo High.

She was a four-time All-American at Stanford and was named the Soccer America Player of the Year in 1991 — the same year she helped lead the USWNT to victory at the inaugural Women’s World Cup.

Foudy was the captain or co-captain for the USWNT 14 out of 18 seasons she was on the team. Since 2006, she has been ESPN’s main color analyst for women’s soccer broadcasts.

In Their Own Words: Julie Foudy

Julie Foudy won two World Cup titles wi Kevork Djansezian / AP Photo

“Life doesn’t just happen. You happen to life. You decide how you want to write your story.” —Julie Foudy

17. Kristine Lilly

U.S. forward Kristine Lilly attempts to pass the ball during a 1996 Olympics women’s soccer game against China. Marta Lavandier / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Forward/midfielder

Years played: 1987-2011

Teams: U.S. women’s national team (1987-2010), University of North Carolina (1989-92), Tyreso FF (1994), Washington Warthogs (1995), Delaware Genies (1998), Boston Breakers (2001-03, 2009-11), KIF Orebro DFF (2005)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time NCAA champion

Bottom Line: Kristine Lilly

Kristine Lilly won two World Cups with the U.S. Women’s national team. Nick Wass / AP Photo

Kristine Lilly still was in high school when she joined the U.S. women’s national team and stayed on the roster for 24 years, becoming the most capped player in history for both men’s and women’s soccer with an astounding 354 caps.

Lilly also won four NCAA championships at the University of North Carolina during that time and made one of the more memorable plays in World Cup history when she cleared a ball off the goal line that had gotten past goalkeeper Brianna Scurry in the 1999 final against China, forcing a shootout that the U.S. won in dramatic fashion.

In Their Own Words: Kristine Lilly

Kristine Lilly helped the U.S. win a lot of soccer games. Anja Niedringhaus / AP Photo

“It’s that tingle in my stomach, that lump in my throat and that smile on my face that tell me I am part of an incredible team.” —Kristine Lilly

16. Lotta Schelin

Sweden’ forward Lotta Schelin, right, plays the ball away from Canada’s Christine Latham during a 2006 soccer game in Blaine, Minnesota. Tom Olmscheid / AP Photo

Country: Sweden

Position: Forward

Years played: 2001-18

Teams: Goteborg (2001-08), Swedish national team (2004-18), Olympique Lyon (2008-16), FC Rosengard (2016-18)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup All-Star, UEFA Women’s European Championship All-Star

Bottom Line: Lotta Schelin

Lotta Schelin played 14 years for the Swedish national team. Armando Franca / AP Photo

Sweden’s career leader in goals scored in international play with 88 goals in 185 caps, Lotta Schelin almost saw her career end before it started when she was told to give up the game after a spinal condition that developed as a teenager. She underwent physical therapy to repair the condition and became the career leading scorer for Lyon with 143 goals in 138 matches.

Schelin played for Sweden in three Women’s World Cups and four Summer Olympics. Her best performance was at the 2016 Summer Olympics, when she led her team to a silver medal.

She retired in 2018 due to chronic head and neck pain.

In Their Own Words: Lotta Schelin

Lotta Schelin had strong skills on the field. Silvia Izquierdo / AP Photo

“Believe in your damn self.” —Lotta Schelin

15. Hope Solo

U.S. goalie Hope Solo, in the green jersey, defends the goal against Brazil during the women’s soccer gold-medal game at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. Ricardo Mazalan / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Goalkeeper

Years played: 1999-2016

Teams: University of Washington (1999-2002), U.S. women’s national team (2000-16), Philadelphia Charge (2003), Kopparbergs/Goteborg (2004), Olympique Lyon (2005), Saint Louis Athletica (2005, 2009-10), Atlanta Beat (2010), magicJack (2011), Seattle Sounders Women (2012), Seattle Reign (2013-16)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove winner, two-time Olympic gold medalist.

Bottom Line: Hope Solo

Hope Solo was a three-time All-American goalkeeper at the University of Washington. Tony Gutierrez / AP Photo

Hope Solo was a Parade High School All-American at forward and dominated almost from the start after making the transition to goalkeeper at the University of Washington. With the Huskies, she was a three-time All-American and the first goalie to win Pac-10 Player of the Year.

Solo holds most of the major career records for goalkeepers for the U.S. women’s national team (including most shutouts) and led the U.S. to a Women’s World Cup title in 2015 and to back-to-back Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.

Solo, one of the most recognizable women’s athletes in American history, wrote an autobiography, “Solo: A Memoir of Hope” that debuted at No. 3 on the New York Times bestseller list.

In Their Own Words: Hope Solo

Hope Solo won two Olympic gold medals. Craig Mitchelldyer / AP Photo

“One thing I’ve learned in life is that I can speak for myself, that I can fight my own battles. I don’t like anyone telling me how I’m supposed to feel or think or what I’m supposed to say.” —Hope Solo

14. Cristiane

During her time with Brazil’s national team, Cristiane had runner-up finishes at the World Cup and in the Olympics. Andre Penner / AP Photo

Country: Brazil

Position: Forward

Years played: 2003-present

Teams: Brazilian national team (2003-present), FFC Turbine Potsdam (2005-06), Vfl Wolfsburg (2006-07), Linkopings FC (2008), Corinthians (2008), Chicago Red Stars (2009-10), Santos (2009-11), WFC Rossivanka Khimki (2011-12), Sao Jose (2012), Daekyo Kangaroos (2013), Centre Olimpico (2013-15), Paris Saint-Germain FC (2015-17), Changchun Zhuoyue (2017-19), Sao Paulo (2019), Santos (2020-present)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup runner-up, two-time Olympic silver medalist

Bottom Line: Cristiane

Cristiane is the leading scorer in Olympic women’s soccer history. Dieter Endlicher / AP Photo

Cristiane is the Scottie Pippen to Marta’s Michael Jordan when it comes to Brazilian women’s soccer.

The leading scorer in Olympic history, Cristiane is one of three women (alongside Christine Sinclair and Birgit Pirnz) to score a hat trick in Olympic play. She has 96 goals in international play and has taken the field for Brazil in four World Cups and four Summer Olympics.

She also famously led a player revolt against the Brazilian soccer federation and briefly retired from the game in protest of the firing of coach Emily Lima in 2017.

In Their Own Words: Cristiane

Cristiane is fun to watch on the pitch. Phelan M. Ebenhack / AP Photo

“Fans of the Chicago Red Stars and WPS are going to love watching Cristiane play soccer at Toyota Park. She plays with passion and style, and she is surely going to be help our squad become one of the most entertaining teams in the league.” —Chicago Red Stars general manager Marcia McDermott

13. Kelly Smith

England’s Kelly Smith, center, fights for the ball against Argentina during a 2007 Women’s World Cup match in Chengdu, China. Lee Jin-man / AP Photo

Country: England

Position: Forward

Years played: 1994-2017

Teams: Wembley Ladies (1994-96), England national team (1995-2014), Arsenal Ladies (1996-97, 2012-17), Seton Hall University (1997-99), New Jersey Lady Stallions (1999-2000), Philadelphia Charge (2001-03), New Jersey Wildcats (2004), Arsenal Ladies (2005-09), Boston Breakers (2009-12), Great Britain national team (2012)

Key stats: Two-time FA Women’s Player of the Year, three-time Big East Offensive Player of the Year, Order of the British Empire

Bottom Line: Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith, left, is considered the greatest women’s soccer player in the history of England. Mark Stehle / AP Photo

Kelly Smith is thought of as the greatest women’s soccer player in the history of England and the first player from her country to make a lasting impact on the international stage.

Smith played in two FIFA Women’s World Cups for England, along with the 2012 Olympics, and is the country’s career leader in goals scored in international competition with 46.

She finished in the top five in voting for the FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year four times and played in international competition for a mind-boggling 20 seasons.

In Their Own Words: Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith, right, scored 46 goals in international competition for England. Martin Meissner / AP Photo

“I was a nervous wreck all day and tried to be positive to the guys by not showing my skepticism. I love these guys and we’ve been through too much together. They’ve hated me at times because of the yelling and screaming. But now with the championship, they’ll realize what I was trying to do for them.” —Kelly Smith

12. Alex Morgan

United States forward Alex Morgan prepares to score a goal against France during a 2007 Women’s World Cup semifinal match in Moenchengladbach, Germany. Martin Meissner / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Forward

Years played: 2007-present

Teams: University of California, Berkeley (2007-10), West Coast FC (2008-09), U.S. women’s national team (2010-present), California Storm (2010), Pali Blues (2010), Western New York Flash (2011), Seattle Sounders Women (2012), Portland Thorns FC (2013-15), Orlando Pride (2016-21), Lyon (2017), Tottenham Hotspur (2020), San Diego Wave (2022-present)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, two-time U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year

Bottom Line: Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan appeared on an episode of “The Simpsons” in 2015 as herself. Charles Rex Arbogast / AP Photo

Alex Morgan seems to have taken the place of Mia Hamm as the most recognizable, most marketable women’s soccer player of the current generation. And she has the numbers to back that up.

Morgan starred at Cal, joined the USWMNT in 2010 and has passed the 100-goal mark with 160 caps. She appeared on an episode of “The Simpsons” alongside several USWMN teammates in 2015 and is a two-time Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist with possibly a decade left to play.

In Their Own Words: Alex Morgan

Alex Morgan is one of the most popular women soccer players in the world. Kiichiro Sato / AP Photo

“Whatever brings you down will eventually make you stronger.” —Alex Morgan

11. Michelle Akers

U.S. player Michelle Akers, left, battles Germany in a game at the 100th anniversary jubilee tournament of the German Soccer Federation (DFB) in Braunschweig, Germany, in 2000. Fabian Bimmer / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Midfield/forward/defense

Years played: 1985-2000

Teams: U.S. women’s national team (1985-2000), University of Central Florida (1985-88), Tyreso FF (1990, 1992, 1994), Orlando Lions (1992)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s Player of the Century, two-time Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Michelle Akers

Michelle Akers won two World Cups with the U.S. Women’s national team and was named FIFA Player of the Century. Kevork Djanzezian / AP Photo

Michelle Akers was a three-time high school all-American growing up in the Seattle suburbs and was on the roster of the U.S. women’s national team from its inception in 1985.

At 5-foot-10, she used her size and athleticism to create a physical style of play that wasn’t without consequence. After winning the Golden Boot on the 1991 U.S. team that won the inaugural Women’s World Cup, she moved positions from forward to midfield then to defense to try and cut back on knee and head injuries.

Akers finished with 105 career international goals in just 153 appearances, the third-least amount of appearances by a player with at least 100 goals.

In Their Own Words: Michelle Akers

Michelle Akers was a three-time high school all-American. USWNT / Twitter

“I think the challenge is to take difficult and painful times and turn them into something beneficial, something that makes you grow.” —Michelle Akers

10. Nadine Angerer

Germany goalkeeper Nadine Angerer dives for the ball against North Korea during a quarterfinal match at the 2007 Women’s World Cup in Wuhan, China. Kin Cheung / AP Photo

Country: Germany

Position: Goalkeeper

Years played: 1995-2015

Teams: FC Nuremburg (1995-96), German national team (1996-2015), FC Wacker Munchen (1996-99), FC Bayern Munich (1999-2001), FC Turbine Potsdam (2001-07), Djurgadens IF (2008), FFC Frankfurt (2009-13), Brisbane Roar (2013-14), Portland Thorns FC (2014-15)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year, two-time Women’s World Cup champion, two-time UEFA Women’s champion

Bottom Line: Nadine Angerer

Nadine Angerer is the first goalkeeper, male or female, to win FIFA World Player of the Year. Henrik Montgomery / AP Photo

Germany’s Nadine Angerer was an apprentice on the national team for over a decade to legendary goalkeeper Silke Rottenberg but was pressed into duty when Rottenberg tore her ACL before the 2007 Women’s World Cup. Angerer didn’t give up a single goal the entire tournament as Germany won its second straight World Cup.

In 2013, she became the first goalkeeper — male or female — to be named FIFA World Player of the Year.

She’s been the goalkeepers coach for Portland Thorns FC since retiring in 2015.

In Their Own Words: Nadine Angerer

Nadine Angerer won two World Cups with Germany. Don Ryan / AP Photo

“She waited patiently for 10 years for a chance to perform on the highest stage and when it finally arrived Nadine Angerer did not fluff her lines. Thrust into the spotlight at the 2007 Women’s World Cup, the perennial reserve goalkeeper put in a virtuoso performance, going unbeaten for a world record 540 minutes during Germany’s victorious campaign that year.” —CNN

9. Hege Riise

Norway midfielder Hege Riise scores in a game against the United States in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, in 2000. Gary I. Rothstein / AP Phot

Country: Norway

Position: Midfielder

Years played: 1990-2006

Teams: Norwegian national team (1990-2006), Setskog Holland (1992-95, 1997-2000), Nikkon Securities Dream Ladies (1995-97), Asker FK Oslo (2000), Carolina Courage (2000-05), Team Strommen (2005-06)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, UEFA Women’s Euro champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Hege Riise

Hege Riise is one of three women to win a World Cup, UEFA Championship and Olympic gold medal. Danik Maurer / AP Photo

Growing up in Norway, Hege Riise also was a standout handball player and skier, but had to play soccer with boys until she was 14 years old due to the lack of teams for girls.

Riise is one of the great winners in the history of sports, not just women’s soccer, and is one of only three women to win a World Cup, UEFA championship and Olympic gold medal.

She even won two WUSA championships with the Carolina Courage and was named the team’s MVP both years.

Riise retired in 2006 and became an athletic trainer, going to work with the U.S. women’s national team in 2009.

In Their Own Words: Hege Riise

Hege Riise retired in 2006 and became an athletic trainer. norwnt / Twitter

“The former Norwegian midfielder was one of the finest players of her generation, winning 188 caps for Norway in an era when they were an international force, but she disguises her ego so successfully that on Tuesday one journalist inquired if she actually possessed one.” —Sounder at Heart

8. Carli Lloyd

United States midfielder Carli Lloyd plays a ball past Colombian players during a 2011 Women’s Soccer World Cup game in Sinsheim, Germany. Michael Probst / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Midfielder

Years played: 1999-2021

Teams: Central Jersey Splash (1999), New Brunswick Power (2000), South Jersey Banshees (2001), Rutgers University (2001-04), New Jersey Wildcats (2004), U.S. Women’s National Team (2005-21), Chicago Red Stars (2009), Sky Blue FC (2010), Atlanta Beat (2011), Western New York Flash (2013-14), Houston Dash (2015-17), Manchester City (2017), Sky Blue FC (2018-21)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year, FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Carli Lloyd

Carli Lloyd scored the gold-medal winning goal in the 2008 and 2012 Olympic finals. Lee Jin-man / AP Photo

Carli Lloyd went to Rutgers University after earning Parade High School All-American honors twice in New Jersey and joined the U.S. women’s national team the year after she finished playing for the Scarlet Knights.

Lloyd can stake a claim to being one of the most clutch players in women’s soccer history. She scored the gold-medal winning goals in the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics and was the first woman to score a hat trick in a Women’s World Cup final in a 5-2 win over Japan in 2005.

One of the most marketable women’s soccer players ever, she has endorsement deals with Nike, Visa, Heineken and Beats by Dre, among others.

In Their Own Words: Carli Lloyd

Carli Lloyd was the first woman to score a hat trick in a World Cup final. Fernando Vergara / AP Photo

“Work hard at everything you do. Never give up. Never quit. Many people have talents, but without the hard work, you won’t get anywhere.” —Carli Lloyd

7. Christine Sinclair

Canada’s Christine Sinclair works against Ghana during a 2007 Women’s World Cup game in China. Ng Han Guan / AP Photo

Country: Canada

Position: Forward/midfielder

Years played: 2000-present

Teams: Canadian national team (2000-present), University of Portland (2001-05), Vancouver Breakers (2001-02), Vancouver Whitecaps (2006-08), FC Gold Pride (2009-10), Western New York Flash (2011-12), Portland Thorns FC (2013-present)

Key stats: Olympic gold medal, two-time NCAA champion, two-time WPS champion, two-time NWSL champion, 14-time Canada Soccer Player of the Year

Bottom Line: Christine Sinclair

Christine Sinclair put Canadian women’s soccer on the map. Ahn Young-joon / AP Photo

Christine Sinclair came from a soccer family. Her father and two of her uncles played professionally, and she was playing on a 7-and-under team by the time she was 4 years old.

Sinclair is first on the international career goals list with 186 goals, ahead of Abby Wambach’s 184 goals. Sinclair made her mark on American soccer in college, winning two national titles at the University of Portland. Her biggest achievement came when she won a gold medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics, which were actually held in 2021.

How much does Canada love Sinclair? They put her on a stamp, and she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada.

In Their Own Words: Christine Sinclair

Christine Sinclair won two national titles at the University of Portland. Joel Martinez / AP Photo

“Christine Sinclair. finally has her title. The 38-year-old, longtime captain of the Canadian team has more international goals than any other player, male or female. But a major tournament championship had eluded her. Until now. Canada clinched the Olympic gold medal by winning a penalty shootout 3-2 against Sweden after a 1-1 draw in the final at the Tokyo Games.” —Associated Press

6. Sun Wen

China forward Sun Wen kicks the ball against Canada during a 2003 Women’s World Cup quarterfinal game in Portland, Oregon. Greg Wahl-Stephens / AP Photo

Country: China

Position: Forward

Years played: 1989-2006

Teams: Shanghai (1989-2000), Chinese national team (1990-2006), Shanghai SVA (2003, 2006)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s Player of the Century, World Cup Golden Ball winner, World Cup Golden Boot winner

Bottom Line: Sun Wen

Sun Wen played in four Women’s World Cups. Don Ryan / AP Photo

One of the greatest women’s players of all time, Sun Wen began attending soccer games with her father as a small child and went on to play in four Women’s World Cups and two Olympics, scoring 106 goals in 156 international matches.

At the 1999 Women’s World Cup, Sun Wen won the Golden Ball for being the tournament’s top player, as well as the Golden Boot for being the top scorer.

The top overall pick in the inaugural 2001 WUSA Draft, Sun Wen also is the first woman to be nominated for the Asian Football Confederation Player of the Year Award.

In Their Own Words: Sun Wen

Sun Wen won a World Cup Golden Ball. AP Photo

“Someone asked me whether I could find a new Sun Wen. I said it’s impossible. We can’t teach someone to be a talent. We have to wait for a talent to appear.” —China national team head coach Ma Liangxing

5. Abby Wambach

U.S. forward Abby Wambach, left, makes a kick against Germany during a 2003 Women’s World Cup semifinal game in Portland, Oregon. Joe Cavaretta / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Forward

Years played: 1998-2015

Teams: University of Florida (1998-2001), U.S. women’s national team (2001-15), Washington Freedom (2002-03), Ajax American Women (2005), Washington Freedom (2009-10), magicJack (2010-11), Western New York Flash (2013-14)

Key stats: FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year in 2012, Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist

Bottom Line: Abby Wambach

Abby Wambach, center, has scored some of the biggest goals in women’s soccer history. Marcio Jose Sanchez / AP Photo

Abby Wambach was the top high school soccer recruit in the United States in 1997, then led the University of Florida to its first NCAA championship in women’s soccer in 1998.

She joined the national team in 2001 but wouldn’t win a Women’s World Cup until her final international competition in 2015.

Wambach finished her career as the world’s leading goal scorer in international competition with 184, and her last-minute goal off a header (her signature shot) to defeat Brazil in the 2004 Olympic finals is considered one of the greatest goals ever.

In Their Own Words: Abby Wambach

Abby Wambach was the Women’s World Player of the Year in 2012. Elaine Thompson / AP Photo

“You can’t cry when things get a little bit hard. You’ve just got to push through and know that there’s a reason and end to the means.” —Abby Wambach

4. Homare Sawa

Japan midfielder Homare Sawa, right, controls the ball against Argentina during a 2007 Women’s World Cup game in Shanghai, China. Eugene Hoshiko / AP Photo

Country: Japan

Position: Midfielder

Years played: 1991-2015

Teams: NTV Beleza (1991-99), Japanese national team (1993-2015), Denver Diamonds (1999-2000), Atlanta Beat (2001-03), Nippon TV Beleza (2004-10), Washington Freedom (2009-10), INAC Kobe Leonessa (2011-15)

Key stats: FIFA World Player of the Year, FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic silver medalist

Bottom Line: Homare Sawa

Homare Sawe started playing in international competitions at 15 years old. Shizuo Kambayashi / AP Photo

Homare Sawa was just 6 years old when she was invited to practice with her older brother’s team and took the field in international competition for Japan at 15 years old.

She would go on to have one of the most decorated careers in international history, playing in six World Cups and four Olympic games over 22 seasons.

She was named the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2012 after leading Japan past the U.S. for the Women’s World Cup title and winning the Golden Ball and Golden Boot.

In Their Own Words: Homare Sawa

Homare Sawa led Japan to the World Cup title in 2012. Michael Probst / AP Photo

“If there is anyone who embodies the fighting spirit of Japan’s disaster-laden year, it is Homare Sawa.The 33-year-old is the captain of Japan’s women’s soccer team who lifted the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Germany last June. Despite being huge underdogs her team made it through to the final of the tournament where they beat the highly fancied United States.” —CNN

3. Birgit Prinz

German striker Birgit Prinz, center, fights for the ball during a game against China 2000. Andreas Fruecht / AP Photo

Country: Germany

Position: Striker

Years played: 1993-2011

Teams: FSV Frankfurt (1993-98), German national team (1994-2011), 1 FFC Frankfurt (1998-2002, 2003-11), Carolina Courage (2002-03)

Key stats: Three-time FIFA World Player of the Year, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, three-time Olympic bronze medalist.

Bottom Line: Birgit Prinz

Birgit Pirnz led Germany to two Women’s World Cup championships. Armando Franca / AP Photo

Birgit Prinz made her international debut at just 16 years old and scored a game-winner for Germany in the 89th minute — a good omen for what was to come.

The greatest women’s soccer player in Germany won two World Cups and scored 128 goals in international competition. She scored another 282 goals in club play and was named FIFA World Player of the Year three times.

After retiring in 2011 at 34 years old, Prinz went to work as a sports psychologist for men’s and women’s teams in Bundesliga, the highest level of pro soccer in Germany.

In Their Own Words: Birgit Prinz

Birgit Prinz was named FIFA World Player of the Year three times. Julie Jacobson / AP Photo

“It’s hard for any team when you lose world-class players, but you saw today that we have some young players who are almost as good.” —Birgit Prinz

2. Marta

Brazil’s Marta, right, scores a goal against New Zealand during a 2007 Women’s World Cup game in Wuhan, China. Greg Baker / AP Photo

Country: Brazil

Position: Forward

Years played: 2000-present

Teams: Brazilian women’s national team (2002-present), Vasco de Gama (2000-02), Santa Cruz (2002-04), Umea IK (2004-08), Los Angeles Sol (2009), Santos (2009-10), FC Gold Pride (2010), Santos (2011), Western New York Flash (2011), Tyreso FF (2012-14), FC Rosengard (2014-17), Orlando Pride (2017-present)

Key stats: Six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Women’s World Cup Golden Ball, Women’s World Cup Golden Shoe

Bottom Line: Marta

Marta has been named FIFA World Player of the Year a record six times. Winslow Towson / AP Photo

Marta Vieiera da Silva is the only soccer player, male or female, to be named the World Player of the Year six times, with five straight wins from 2006 to 2010.

Forbidden from playing soccer with boys as a child, the Women’s World Cup career scoring leader created makeshift balls out of old grocery bags to hone her skills.

Her best finish in international competition was at the 2007 Women’s World Cup, where Brazil was the runner-up, and Marta is the Women’s World Cup’s career goals leader with 17. She also won silver medals at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics.

In Their Own Words: Marta

Marta is tough to stop. Andre Penner / AP Photo

“Never give up, and be confident in what you do. There may be tough times, but the difficulties which you face will make you more determined to achieve your objectives and to win against all the odds.” —Marta

1. Mia Hamm

U.S. forward Mia Hamm scored on a penalty against Brazil during a soccer game at the 2004 Summer Olympic in Greece. Luca Bruno / AP Photo

Country: United States

Position: Forward/midfield

Years played: 1987-2004

Teams: U.S. women’s national team (1987-2004), University of North Carolina (1989-93), Washington Freedom (2001-03)

Key stats: Two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, two-Time Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, four-time NCAA champion

Bottom Line: Mia Hamm

Mia Hamm joined the U.S. Women’s national team in 1987, when she was just 15 years old. Chris O’Meara / AP Photo

Mia Hamm was born with a club foot and was forced to wear corrective shoes as a child but would go on to become the youngest player in the history of the U.S. women’s national team when she took the field in 1987 at just 15 years old.

The U.S. team thrived with Hamm as its poster girl for most of the next two decades as she carved out a career as one of the greatest women’s players in history and retired in 2004 as the world’s leading goal scorer in international competition with 158 goals.

During her career, she was one of the most marketable female athletes in history and had endorsement deals with Gatorade, Nike, PowerBar and more.

Hamm married former Boston Red Sox shortstop Nomar Garciaparra in 2003, creating an elite sports power couple. They have three children together, twin girls and a boy.

In Their Own Words: Mia Hamm

Mia Hamm won at every level. Armando Franca / AP Photo

“I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion.” —Mia Hamm