By OkayGoal 
Women’s soccer is experiencing an incredible surge in popularity, driven in part by the National Women’s Soccer League’s growth. But as we look to the future, it’s important to honor the past and pioneers who have helped shape what we know today. This game is built on the legacy of women’s soccer trailblazers who broke barriers and laid the foundation for generations to come. It’s important to acknowledge these icons, so learn all about World Cup legends and global women’s soccer icons you should know.
1. Mia Hamm (USA)
Any 90’s kid can remember the global stardom of Mia Hamm who was a two-time FIFA World Cup Champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist. Hamm is considered one of the all-time greats, according to U.S. Soccer, was named U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year for five consecutive years, was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame and was the first woman inducted into the World Football Hall of Fame. She was also one of FIFA’s 125 greatest living players. Her legend status served as the inspiration for an entire generation of young soccer players. Hamm is now a co-owner of Angel City FC and Los Angeles FC.
2. Michelle Akers (USA)
In addition to being listed as one of FIFA’s 125 greatest living players, Michelle Akers was named FIFA’s Female Player of the Century in 2002. She is a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame, won the Golden Shoe for being top scorer in the 1991 World Cup, won two World Cups, and has an Olympic gold medal.
3. Sun Wen (China)
Sun Wen, former captain of the China National Team, was one of two women (Michelle Akers) to make the FIFA Female Player of the Century. She is also an Olympic silver medalist, the 1999 World Cup co-Golden Boot winner, and was integral to her team winning the Asia Cup between 1991 and 1997. She is currently the vice president of the Chinese Football Association.
4. Marta Vieira da Silva(Brazil)
Six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Marta Vieira da Silva, is considered one of the world’s greatest footballers of all time according to FIFA. She won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot at the 2007 Women’s World Cup and is Brazil’s top scorer with 119 goals. Marta also holds the record for most goals scored in FIFA World Cup tournaments, men’s or women’s, with 17 goals. She was also a silver medalist in the 2004, 2008, and 2024 Olympics. Marta is currently playing for the NWSL’s Orlando Pride.
5. Birgit Prinz (Germany)
Known for elevating women’s football in Europe, Prinz is a three-time FIFA World Player of the Year and two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion. She is second only to Marta in FIFA’s Women’s World Cup lead scorers and is known as a top striker. She also won eight awards for German Female Footballer of the Year and helped Germany win its first World Cup title. After retiring, she became a sports psychologist for youth teams in Germany.
Who’s Next?
These icons, in addition to countless others like Abby Wambach, Brandi Chastain, Hope Solo, Pia Sundhage, Perpetua Nkwocha, Homare Sawa, and Kristine Lilly, have inspired millions of young players and redefined what’s possible in the sport. Their legacies of excellence and tenacity continue to echo today. As the game evolves, we carry their legacy forward while championing the next generation of greatness in women’s soccer, which begs the question — who will be next?
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