2024 Ballon d'Or Nominees Announced for Women's Football

The 2024 Ballon d'Or Féminin shortlist includes notable nominees such as England's Lauren James, Lucy Bronze, and Lauren Hemp, all of whom played in the Women's World Cup final won by Spain. Five players from the US Women's National Team (USWNT), including Trinity Rodman and Lindsey Horan, were nominated following their Olympic gold medal victory, while Spain's Aitana Bonmati, the current holder, is also a favorite to win again. Additionally, Zambian forward Barbra Banda has made her first appearance on the shortlist after a stellar season in the NWSL and impressive Olympic performance. Other nominees include Manchester City players Yui Hasegawa, who has continued to excel in her role, and Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw, who had a record-breaking season. The winners will be announced on October 28 in Paris, with the awards considering performances from August 2023 to July 2024. Notably absent from the list is Naomi Girma, a standout defender for the USWNT.