Even while she is recuperating from major surgery, Matildas forward Sam Kerr keeps picking up awards for her stellar performances. Kerr, who last week went under the knife to repair a torn anterior cruciate
ligament, was named in the FIFA FIFPRO Women’s World XI, voted for by players across the globe.
The 30-year-old was the leading scorer for Chelsea and the Matildas in 2023, netting 37 times for club and country and helping Australia to the World Cup semi-finals. She also fired Chelsea to a third consecutive FA Cup and a fourth-straight Women’s Super League title.
Shortlisted Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou missed out on being named the world’s best coach at the glittering awards ceremony, at which Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati were crowned the top players. Postecoglou, recognised for his achievements in his previous out to overwhelming favourite Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola guided Manchester City to a treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup triumphs last season. Postecoglou was on a shortlist that also included Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, Luciano Spalletti – who took Napoli to the Serie A title – and Barcelona’s Xavi.
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson narrowly missed out on the top award for women’s coach, with England boss Sarina Wiegman picking up the gong for the second successive year. The Dutchwoman took England to the World Cup final in Sydney, where they were beaten by Spain.
The best women’s player award went to Spain’s World Cup winner Aitana Bonmati, making it a clean sweep for the 25-year-old playmaker.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi, now with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, won the best men’s player award once again: for the eight time in 15 years. Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and French forward Kylian Mbappe were also shortlisted.
