Aitana Bonmatí has cemented her status as one of the world's best female footballers after becoming the first player to top the Guardian's Women's Football Awards for three consecutive years. The 27-year-old midfielder, who plays for Barcelona and the Spanish national team, edged out compatriot Mariona Caldentey by a margin of just 453 points in the latest rankings.
Despite missing several key games due to injury, Bonmatí has continued to excel on the pitch, guiding her team to a Champions League final and a Euro tournament win. Her ability to rise to the occasion is unparalleled among her peers, with many regarding her as an iconic figure in women's football.
Born in Catalonia, Bonmatí's love for the sport was instilled in her from a young age. With both parents being teachers of the Catalan language, she grew up surrounded by the region's rich culture and heritage. As a result, she has become synonymous with Barcelona, playing over 300 games for the club.
The rankings reflect a significant shift in the women's game, with nearly a quarter of this year's top 100 featuring new faces. The growth of the sport is evident, with players from around the world breaking into the list and emerging as contenders for the top spot.
However, despite this influx of fresh talent, Bonmatí remains the gold standard by which all others are measured. Her dominance on the pitch is not about to be challenged anytime soon, and her place at the top of the rankings looks secure.
Bonmatí's success has inspired a new generation of players, with some notable newcomers making their mark in this year's rankings. However, for now, she remains the one to beat, a true icon of women's football who continues to set the standard for her peers.
Despite missing several key games due to injury, Bonmatí has continued to excel on the pitch, guiding her team to a Champions League final and a Euro tournament win. Her ability to rise to the occasion is unparalleled among her peers, with many regarding her as an iconic figure in women's football.
Born in Catalonia, Bonmatí's love for the sport was instilled in her from a young age. With both parents being teachers of the Catalan language, she grew up surrounded by the region's rich culture and heritage. As a result, she has become synonymous with Barcelona, playing over 300 games for the club.
The rankings reflect a significant shift in the women's game, with nearly a quarter of this year's top 100 featuring new faces. The growth of the sport is evident, with players from around the world breaking into the list and emerging as contenders for the top spot.
However, despite this influx of fresh talent, Bonmatí remains the gold standard by which all others are measured. Her dominance on the pitch is not about to be challenged anytime soon, and her place at the top of the rankings looks secure.
Bonmatí's success has inspired a new generation of players, with some notable newcomers making their mark in this year's rankings. However, for now, she remains the one to beat, a true icon of women's football who continues to set the standard for her peers.