Ten weeks after their Women’s World Cup exit at Lang Park, Matildas stars Sam Kerr and Hayley Raso were back in the spotlight as finalists for the 2023 Ballon d’Or Feminin in Paris. This marks the first time two Australians have ever made the coveted shortlist.
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Kerr narrowly misses out on top prize
Australian captain Sam Kerr finished second in voting for the prestigious award, coming up just short behind Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí. Kerr is the only player to have been nominated for each of the five Ballon d’Or Feminin awards since its inception in 2018, having now finished third twice and runner-up once.
The Chelsea forward led the Blues to a third successive FA Women’s Super League (WSL) title in 2022-23, scoring 12 goals in 21 league appearances. She also netted a memorable goal for the Matildas in their World Cup semi-final defeat to England, despite missing much of the tournament through injury.
Kerr has continued her superstar form for Chelsea, who currently sit second in the WSL table after four games. Kerr has a goal and an assist in just three games this season.
Raso also recognized among nominees
Fellow Matilda Hayley Raso was also among the 30 players nominated for the Ballon d’Or. The Real Madrid winger finished 17th in the final voting
Raso has made a solid start to the season, scoring once as Real Madrid chase the Spanish title.
Bonmatí, Messi win 2023 Ballon d’Or
World Cup Golden Ball winner Bonmati claimed the top prize after a trophy-laden year for club and country. Her Ballon d’Or triumph means that Spanish players have won the last three awards, with Alexia Putellas winning the last two.
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In the men’s category, Argentina star Lionel Messi’s World Cup heroics earned him a record eighth Ballon d’Or.
Published 2 November 2023