Fifa women's footballer of the year 2019

Introduction to the best fifa women's player award 2019

The year 2019 marked a significant moment in women's football, not least because of the highly anticipated FIFA Women's World Cup held in France. Amidst this global spectacle, the competition for the prestigious fifa women's footballer of the year 2019 award, officially known as The Best FIFA Women's Player, intensified. This accolade celebrates the most outstanding female player in the world, recognizing individual brilliance, team success, and impact on the sport during a specific period. The 2019 edition was particularly noteworthy, following a World Cup that captivated millions and showcased the incredible talent and growing prominence of women's soccer.

The award ceremony, held in Milan, Italy, on September 23, 2019, was the culmination of a period of exceptional performances. It honored players who not only excelled on the pitch but also inspired fans and pushed the boundaries of the sport. Understanding the context of the 2019 award requires looking back at the players who dominated headlines and delivered unforgettable moments throughout the season, leading up to the grand announcement.

The nominees: a trio of excellence

For the fifa women's footballer of the year 2019, three extraordinary athletes stood out from a shortlist of twelve players, earning their nominations as finalists. These women represented the pinnacle of talent and dedication in women's football, each bringing unique strengths and achievements to the table. The finalists were:

• Megan Rapinoe (USA): An attacking midfielder/winger known for her exceptional technical skills, vision, and powerful leadership. Her performances for the United States Women's National Team (USWNT) were instrumental throughout the World Cup.
• Alex Morgan (USA): A prolific striker renowned for her clinical finishing, speed, and aerial ability. She was a key offensive force for both the USWNT and her club, Orlando Pride.
• Lucy Bronze (England): A versatile defender, capable of playing at right-back or central defense, celebrated for her defensive prowess, attacking runs, and powerful shots. Bronze was a standout player for Lyon and the England national team.

Each of these players had an incredible season leading up to the award. Alex Morgan, for instance, scored five goals in a single World Cup match against Thailand, matching a tournament record. Lucy Bronze played a crucial role in Lyon's UEFA Women's Champions League victory, their fourth consecutive title, and was a driving force for England's semi-final run in the World Cup. These achievements set the stage for a compelling contest for the ultimate individual honor in women's football.

Megan rapinoe: the undisputed winner of 2019

The recipient of the fifa women's footballer of the year 2019 was none other than the United States' iconic forward, Megan Rapinoe. Her victory was widely celebrated, acknowledging a year that saw her ascend to global superstardom, not just for her footballing prowess but also for her powerful voice and activism. Rapinoe's 2019 was truly remarkable:

• She co-captained the USWNT to victory at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in France.
• She won both the Golden Boot (top scorer with 6 goals) and the Golden Ball (best player of the tournament) at the World Cup, a rare double achievement.
• Her memorable performances included crucial goals in knockout stages, such as the quarter-final against France and the final against the Netherlands.

Rapinoe's distinctive goal celebration, arms outstretched, became an iconic image of the tournament. Beyond her on-field heroics, she was a vocal advocate for gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice. Her candidness and willingness to speak out amplified her platform, making her a formidable figure both inside and outside the sport. Her triumph for the fifa women's footballer of the year 2019 not only recognized her unparalleled athletic achievements but also her significant cultural impact, cementing her legacy as one of football's most influential figures.

The impact and legacy of the 2019 award

The awarding of the fifa women's footballer of the year 2019 to Megan Rapinoe had a far-reaching impact, extending beyond just recognizing individual excellence. It highlighted the growing stature and increasing professionalism of women's football on a global scale. Awards like these play a crucial role in elevating the sport, providing role models for aspiring young athletes, and attracting greater media attention and investment.

Rapinoe's win, in particular, brought to the forefront discussions around equal pay and gender equity in sports. Her acceptance speeches often used her platform to advocate for these causes, pushing FIFA and national federations to address systemic inequalities. The increased visibility of the award also contributes to improved playing conditions, better salaries, and more professional opportunities for female footballers worldwide. For example, countries like Spain and England have seen significant boosts in domestic league attendance and viewership following the increased profile of their national team players and stars like Rapinoe. The legacy of the 2019 award is not just about a single player's triumph, but about the collective advancement and recognition of women's football as a major global sport.

Understanding the voting process and criteria

The winner of the fifa women's footballer of the year 2019, like all The Best FIFA Football Awards, is determined through a meticulously structured voting process designed to ensure fairness and representativeness. The voting panel is composed of four equally weighted groups, each contributing 25% to the final outcome:

• National Team Coaches: Head coaches of all FIFA-affiliated women's national teams cast their votes.
• National Team Captains: Captains of all FIFA-affiliated women's national teams submit their choices.
• Selected Media Representatives: A panel of expert journalists from around the world are chosen to participate.
• Public Vote: Football fans worldwide can cast their votes online via FIFA's official website.

For the 2019 award, the performance period considered was from July 13, 2018, to July 7, 2019. This specific timeframe was crucial as it encompassed the entirety of the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, which heavily influenced the outcome. Voters are typically asked to consider various factors when making their choices, including individual performance, contribution to team success, impact on the game, leadership qualities, and fair play. This comprehensive approach ensures that the award truly recognizes the most deserving player based on a broad spectrum of criteria and perspectives from across the global football community.