The story of the USWNT in recent years has been of a team that has had its dominance over the women’s game erode as other nations have played catch up or even surpassed them. Both national teams and domestic clubs in Europe have taken strides in the sport and the USA finds itself in a much more competitive environment. Evidence of that is not only on the field, where the Americans had a rough go in the 2023 World Cup before winning the 2024 Olympic Gold Medal, it’s also seen on ranking lists and in nominations for individual awards.
That’s playing out again as the 2026 Ballon d’Or finalists have been named with just one American making the cut. USWNT midfielder Rose Lavelle had a fantastic year with Gotham FC scoring the game winner in the NWSL Championship in 2025 and has led the team to the top of the league with four goals in 19 matches. She has a rare combination of talent and excelling in high-pressure moments both with the national team and her club. Her nomination is clearly deserved but she will have significant competition for the coveted award.
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Poland and Barcelona‘s Ewa Pajor and London City Lionesses’ Spaniard Alexia Putellas midfielder are also strong contenders. Meanwhile, in NWSL Temwa Chawinga of the KC Current and Malawi could come away with the prize. Of the nominees, 25 are based in Europe with four in the NWSL and one in Liga Femnil. If Lavelle wins, she would join Megan Rapinoe as the other American to take home the award.
