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Every year, The Guardian releases its list of the 100 best female footballers in the world, showcasing the sport’s top talents. The 2024 edition features a significant achievement for Haiti’s Melchie Dumornay, who ranked 29th. Her rise reflects not only her individual brilliance but also the rigorous and inclusive selection process that highlights the depth of talent in women’s football.
How the guardian makes its selection
The Guardian’s list is compiled by a panel of 99 experts, including leading coaches, former players, and journalists from across the globe. This year’s panel included notable figures like Kansas City Current head coach Vlatko Andonovski, Lyon’s Joe Montemurro, and Bayern Munich’s Alexander Strauss. New judges, such as France head coach Laurent Bonadei and Racing Louisville assistant Carmelina Moscato, brought fresh perspectives to the rankings.
The judges evaluate players based on their performances over a 12-month period, taking into account contributions in domestic leagues, international tournaments, and standout moments in global competitions like the UEFA Champions League and the Olympics.
Melchie Dumornay: From 99th to 29th in two years
Dumornay’s rapid ascent through the rankings is a testament to her exceptional performances. In 2022, she debuted on the list at 99th place. By 2023, she had broken into the top 50 at 46th. This year, her achievements at Olympique Lyonnais, including standout performances in the Champions League semi-finals and consistent goal-scoring in domestic competitions, catapulted her to 29th place.
Her rise also places her above several established stars, including Ada Hegerberg and Alexandra Popp, signaling her growing influence in women’s football.
What the rankings mean for women’s football
The Guardian’s list not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores the growing global recognition of women’s football. By involving diverse voices from across the sport, the rankings reflect a holistic view of talent, considering players from established leagues and emerging football nations like Haiti.
Dumornay’s presence in the top 30 serves as an inspiration for young players worldwide, particularly in underrepresented regions. It also highlights the importance of visibility and representation in driving the growth of the sport.
As Dumornay continues to shine on the world stage, her journey serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and opportunity. The Guardian’s rankings provide a platform for players like her to gain well-deserved recognition and inspire the next generation of athletes.
For Haiti, Dumornay’s success is a point of pride and a signal of the country’s potential to produce world-class talent, given the right resources and support.
