Trinity Rodman. Rose Lavelle. Emily Fox. Naomi Girma.
All great female soccer players who have made considerable contributions to the sport – but not quite enough to make the top five.
The impact of women’s soccer has reached new heights, with the sport inspiring millions worldwide. Over the years, women’s soccer has grown significantly in terms of viewership, investment, and fan support. From the electrifying moments in the FIFA Women’s World Cup to the dedicated fanbase supporting the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the sport has evolved from a niche interest to a global phenomenon. The journey has not been without its challenges—fighting for equal pay, recognition, and resources has been a central part of the sport’s story. Today, however, women’s soccer is celebrated not only for its competitive spirit but for the resilience and skill of its players.
Here is a look at the top 5 players who are currently making an indelible mark on the field and shaping the future of the game.
#5 Julie Ertz
Known for her aggression and ruthless defending, Julie Ertz takes spot number four in US Women’s soccer. Ertz defending and offensive skills balance the team out, bringing stability and allowing offensive players to take advantage of the other team. Aside from her brutal slide tackles and headers, Ertz was also involved in winning the 2015 and 2019 World Cup, and was named US Soccer Female Player of the Year. She played on both Chicago Red Stars and Angel City FC before announcing her retirement in August 2023.
#4 Alyssa Naeher
Alyssa Naeher probably has the most important role on a soccer team: goalie. Naeher consistently stops dangerous attacks, and defends the goal with her life. Her agility and confidence in the goal is incomparable, and is undoubtedly the best women’s goalie in the world. Naeher has 111 appearances for US soccer since 2014 and still is the starting goalie for them today.
#3 Sophia Smith
The youngest player to make top 5 is number 11, Sophia Smith. Although she is one of the youngest on the US national team (currently 24), age has not stopped Smith from smashing records. She is a force to be reckoned with on the field, and her dribbling and technical skills are unmatched. She scored 2 goals in the 2023 opener for the Women’s World Cup against Nigeria, showing promise for the future of women’s soccer. Smith quickly became the face of the US team by exceeding expectations in the World Cup. She is an inspiration for all young girls because of her hard work and dedication to the sport, as well as advocating for women involved in sports.
#2 Lindsay Horan
Coming in second place is captain Lindsey Horan. As a centermid, Horan is exceptional at distributing the ball, creating opportunities for her forwards, and is driven to lead her to team to success. Overall, Horan has 155 appearances, 35 goals, and 57 assists in her US soccer career. When she is not playing for the US, she is committed to Olympique Lyonnais, which is a highly prestigious and competitive club.
#1 Alex Morgan
Last, but not least, one of the world’s most iconic women’s soccer players: none other than number 13, Alex Morgan. Before recently retiring, Morgan was known for always finding the back of the net, and her dangerous attacks in the final third of the field. Morgan played on San Diego Wave FC, and scored 123 goals in a 15 year period for the US Women’s National Team. Morgan was also valuable asset by winning two consecutive World Cups (the 2019 World Cup, and 2015).
Besides soccer, Morgan is a women’s advocate, who fights for equal pay and supports mom’s who play professional sports after having her own kid, Charlie, in the peak of her career. Despite having a child, Morgan defied odds and kept playing at a professional level while being a mom. She is an inspiration for women of all ages.
