8 Top Female Football Players To Know

Once sidelined and underestimated, women's football has risen with remarkable force over the past two decades -- transforming from a marginalized pursuit into a global movement. Historic wins, record-breaking transfers, sold-out stadiums and increasing media coverage have all signaled a long-overdue shift. Yet, the fight isn't over. Female players continue to push for parity in pay, resources, visibility and respect -- not just as athletes, but as voices for equity and change.

We need to continue to champion and celebrate the women at the heart of that evolution. So, we've rounded up some of the best female footballers around the world -- from Beth Mead's creative dominance at Arsenal W.F.C and outspoken advocacy and Bunny Shaw's Golden Boot-winning brilliance for Manchester City Womens to Ada Hegerberg's pioneering stand for equality, each of these athletes embody more than just skill, they represent resilience, leadership and vision.

There obviously so many more that eight amazing players to have on your radar, but keep scrolling to see some of our absolute faves.

For more sports news, read about Nike's new football kit for Chelsea FC.

Beth Mead

Beth Mead joined Arsenal Women's Football Club in January 2017 from Sunderland, U.K., and has since become one of the team's most influential players. Initially a central striker, Mead transitioned into a wide attacking role at Arsenal, where her creativity, pace, and vision have flourished. She is renowned for her ability to deliver precise crosses and create chances, holding the record for being one of the top three players with the most assists in the Women's Super League (WSL). On the social front, Mead has continued to use her platform for good -- most recently teaming up with Arsenal and Persil in a powerful campaign challenging the stigma around periods in sport, helping to create a more open and supportive environment for young athletes everywhere.

Bunny Shaw

Since joining Manchester City Women in 2021, Khadija "Bunny" Shaw quickly made herself one of the most dangerous strikers in the WSL. With her mix of strength, smart movement and sharp finishing, she's become the focal point of City's attack. In the 2023–2024 season, she scored 21 goals in just 18 games -- enough to win the WSL Golden Boot even after an injury ended her season early. Her link-up play with teammates like Lauren Hemp has been key to City's success, and her ability to hold up the ball and finish under pressure sets her apart. Off the pitch, she's captain of Jamaica and their all-time top scorer, proving her impact goes far beyond club level.

Mayra Ramirez

Born and raised in Colombia, Mayra Ramírez joined Chelsea W.F.C. in January 2024 as the most expensive signing in women's football history at the time. (Her £384k deal was later overshadowed by Naomi Girma in at the beginning of 2025.) Ramírez's journey reflects serious dedication -- before turning pro, she travelled 35 kilometres from her hometown of Sibaté each day to train, a work ethic that still defines her game. Known for her power, athleticism and goal-scoring ability, she made an immediate impact at Chelsea. In the final game of 2024-2025's season, she scored twice and assisted two more in a 6–0 win over Manchester United Women to help seal the WSL title. She carried that momentum into this year, playing a key role in her team's 3-0 triumph over Manchester United in the Women's FA Cup final. Strong, direct and technically sharp, she's added real presence to Chelsea's front line, especially in the absence of Sam Kerr, and has quickly adapted to the pace and demands of the English game.

Fridolina Rolfö

Hailing from Sweden, Fridolina Rolfö is a key player for FC Barcelona Femeni since arriving in 2021, bringing strength, pace and versatility to the team. Usually out on the left wing but just as comfortable leading the line, she's no stranger to the big stage, with her winning goal in the 2023 Champions League final proof of that. Off the pitch, Rolfö is equally driven. In our recent interview, she spoke openly about the importance of giving women's football the same visibility, accessibility and funding as the men's game. It's something she's passionate about, and as a PUMA ambassador, she uses her voice to help push the sport forward while continuing to perform at the highest level.

Trinity Rodman

In 2023, Trinity Rodman became the youngest player in WSL history to hit double digits for both goals and assists and to this present day, she's a key force for both the Washington Spirit and the U.S. Women's National Team, the latter team she won Olympic gold with in 2024. But there's more to her than highlight reels. During her episode of Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast last year, she spoke candidly about growing up largely without her father, NBA legend Dennis Rodman, and the ongoing challenges in their relationship -- a side of her story fans rarely see. Still, she's carving her own path, combining fearless play with a powerful voice off the pitch. As an Adidas athlete and author of a children's book, she's using her platform to push for better visibility and investment in women's sport.

Racheal Kundananji

Zambian forward Racheal Kundananji is known for her exceptional goal-scoring prowess -- netting 33 goals in 43 Liga F appearances, playing a pivotal role in this landmark move. In february last year, she joined Bay FC from Madrid CFF for $788,000 at just 23. Her expensive transfer is thanks to her exceptional dribbling, goal-scoring ability and knack for breaking down defenses. With all her achievements, she's proved her consistency and impact on the field. Kundananji is already a key figure for both club and country, and before turning pro, she played barefoot in local Zambian tournaments, showcasing her passion and determination from a young age.

Ada Hegerberg

In 2018, Ada Hegerberg became the first woman to win the Ballon d'Or, cementing her status as one of the game's greats. As Lyon's star striker, she holds the all-time record for goals in the UEFA Women's Champions League and has helped the club to multiple European titles. But her impact goes beyond the pitch. In 2017, she stepped away from Norway's national team in protest over gender inequality in football, returning five years later when she felt progress had been made. Now back as captain, she continues to lead by example.

Sakina Karchaoui

Sakina Karchaoui has become a standout figure in French football, known for her dynamic play and leadership on the field. Born in Salon-de-Provence in 1996, she began her football journey playing with boys in her neighborhood, but her professional career took off with Montpellier, followed by a stint at Lyon and now, she brings her talents to Paris Saint-Germain. Karchaoui's versatility has seen her excel as both a left-back and a midfielder, a transition encouraged by former coach Hervé Renard, who recognized her potential to influence the game more centrally. Beyond her club success, Karchaoui has been a vital part of the French national team, earning over 85 caps and contributing to their international campaigns.

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