LONDON, December 29, 2025 – The year 2025 wasn’t just another cycle for women’s football; it marked a poignant farewell to a legend and the ascendance of a new one, as Brazil’s Marta concluded her illustrious career while Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí cemented her place as the sport’s brightest star.
A Golden Goodbye and a Rising Star
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The year saw the emotional retirement of Marta and the continued dominance of Aitana Bonmatí, signaling a shift in women’s football.
- Brazilian icon Marta retired from international play after a decorated career.
- Aitana Bonmatí continued her reign as one of the world’s top players, winning individual accolades.
- Brazil secured thier ninth Copa América title,while England defended their euro crown.
- Sarina Wiegman made history as a three-time consecutive Women’s Euro winning coach.
Marta, a six-time Ballon d’Or winner, bid farewell to the Brazilian national team, the canarinha, in remarkable fashion, scoring two goals in a final match victory over Colombia. This triumph secured Brazil’s fourth title and earned Marta the title of best player in the competition. Despite Colombia’s strong performance, Marta’s experience and final burst of brilliance proved decisive, adding another chapter to Brazil’s record as the most prosperous team in the tournament with nine titles.
European Championships and Coaching Excellence
Across the Atlantic, England successfully defended their Euro title, won in 2022, after a tense victory over Spain decided on penalties. the final matches were closely contested, offering a thrilling spectacle for fans.
England’s coach, Sarina Wiegman, continued her remarkable run of success. Having previously led the Netherlands to European glory in 2017, Wiegman became only the second coach to win three consecutive Women’s Euro titles-an achievement recognized with the Ballon d’or for coach of the year.
Bonmatí’s Continued Brilliance
Women’s football continues its impressive growth trajectory,and Aitana Bonmatí is at the forefront of this expansion. The Spanish midfielder for FC Barcelona claimed both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA’s The Best award for the third year running, solidifying her position as the elite player in the world.
Bonmatí was the driving force behind both Barça and the Spanish national team in 2025. While Barcelona fell short in the Champions League final against Arsenal and Spain lost to England in the euro Cup, Bonmatí consistently showcased her remarkable skill, dribbling ability, and vision throughout the season. Her talent is undeniably attracting a growing global fanbase to the women’s game.
