Introduction: The Countdown to the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or
As the football world anticipates the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, the spotlight shines brightly on Aitana Bonmati. The Barcelona midfielder, who claimed her first Golden Ball in 2023, is now poised to make it two in a row. Her exceptional performances throughout the 2023-2024 season, particularly in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, have solidified her status as the frontrunner. However, the competition is far from over, with strong challenges coming from players across the globe, notably from the USWNT’s Olympic gold medalists.
Aitana Bonmati: The Standout Performer
Aitana Bonmati has been a key figure in Barcelona’s dominance in European football. The Catalan club secured another Champions League title, and Bonmati’s contributions were instrumental. Her ability to control the midfield, create scoring opportunities, and deliver in clutch moments sets her apart from her peers.
In the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, with Barcelona trailing 1-0 from the first leg, Bonmati stepped up, scoring the crucial goal that leveled the aggregate and set the stage for Barca’s eventual victory. In the final, she once again demonstrated her class, breaking the deadlock with a stunning goal that helped Barcelona lift the trophy. These performances are not just about skill; they showcase her leadership and ability to perform under pressure, qualities that are essential for any Ballon d’Or winner.
USWNT Stars: Strong Contenders from Across the Atlantic
The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) has historically been a powerhouse in women’s football, and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris were no exception. The USWNT clinched the gold medal, with standout performances from players like Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman. Their success on the international stage has catapulted them into the Ballon d’Or conversation.
Sophia Smith had an outstanding tournament, scoring pivotal goals and providing key assists that were crucial to the USWNT’s triumph. Her versatility and ability to impact games from various positions make her a formidable contender.
Trinity Rodman also had a remarkable year, contributing significantly to both her club, Washington Spirit, and the national team. Her blend of speed, strength, and technical ability has made her one of the most exciting young talents in women’s football. While the Ballon d’Or has traditionally favored European-based players, the performances of Smith and Rodman in 2024 have given the USWNT a strong presence in the rankings.
Caroline Graham Hansen: Barcelona’s Other Star
While Aitana Bonmati has been the focal point of Barcelona’s success, her teammate Caroline Graham Hansen deserves just as much attention. The Norwegian winger had an extraordinary season, contributing with goals, assists, and match-winning performances that were crucial to Barca’s historic quadruple—winning the Champions League, Liga F, Copa de la Reina, and the Supercopa de Espana.
Graham Hansen’s influence was particularly evident in the Champions League final, where she delivered a masterclass in wide play, tormenting defenders with her pace and dribbling skills. Despite being overlooked in previous Ballon d’Or nominations, her 2023-2024 season has made her impossible to ignore. If there’s one player who could challenge Bonmati for the top spot, it’s Caroline Graham Hansen.
The Impact of the 2024 Olympics on Ballon d’Or Rankings
The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris played a significant role in shaping the Ballon d’Or race. The tournament provided a global stage for players to showcase their talent and make their case for the prestigious award. The USWNT’s gold medal win has certainly boosted the profiles of its stars, but other players also made a strong impression.
For example, Mallory Swanson of the Chicago Red Stars was one of the standout performers of the Olympics, despite only recently returning from a long-term injury. Her four goals in the tournament, including the match-winner in the final, have made her a dark horse in the Ballon d’Or race.
Additionally, Mariona Caldentey bid farewell to Barcelona with a stellar season before joining Arsenal. Her performance in the Nations League and the Olympics has made her a key contender as well. Caldentey’s ability to influence games from midfield and her knack for scoring important goals make her a player to watch.
European Season vs. International Tournaments: What Matters More?
One of the ongoing debates in the Ballon d’Or rankings is the weight given to performances in European club football versus international tournaments. While the USWNT’s Olympic victory has certainly elevated the status of American players, it’s often the consistency and impact in club football that sway the judges.
For Aitana Bonmati, her dominance in both Liga F and the Champions League, coupled with her strong performances for Spain in the Nations League, gives her a comprehensive portfolio. Similarly, Caroline Graham Hansen’s club performances across all competitions provide a compelling case.
On the other hand, players like Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman will rely heavily on their Olympic success to boost their rankings, given the different calendar and visibility of the NWSL compared to European leagues.
Conclusion: A Tight Race with Bonmati in the Lead
As the countdown to the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or continues, Aitana Bonmati remains the clear favorite. Her combination of skill, leadership, and ability to deliver in crucial moments makes her the standout candidate. However, the strong performances from USWNT stars and her own Barcelona teammate, Caroline Graham Hansen, ensure that the race is far from over.
With the ceremony just weeks away, the football world waits eagerly to see who will be crowned the best female footballer in the world. While Bonmati leads the race, the fierce competition and potential surprises make this year’s Ballon d’Or one of the most exciting in recent memory.
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