Aitana Bonmatí has cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players of her generation by becoming the first footballer to top The Guardian’s list of the 100 best female players in the world for three consecutive years.
The Spain and Barcelona midfielder finished ahead of Mariona Caldentey and England’s Alessia Russo in the 2025 rankings, once again earning the top spot through a combination of elegance, consistency, and match-winning influence.
Bonmatí’s third straight title is a historic achievement in the list’s 10-year history. No player — male or female — has previously held the No. 1 position for three successive years, underlining just how dominant the 27-year-old has been in the modern game.
Her 2025 campaign was defined by control and composure. She played a central role in Barcelona’s domestic double and Spain’s continued international success, delivering standout performances with remarkable regularity. Judges praised her ability to dictate tempo, create under pressure, and lead by example.
“She’s a player who elevates everyone around her,” said one panellist. “You watch Bonmatí and realise how simple the game can look — until you try to do what she does.”
Voted on by 127 experts from around the world, the Guardian Top 100 is considered one of the most respected rankings in women’s football. Bonmatí’s win also reflects a broader trend — the increasing dominance of technically refined, tactically intelligent midfielders in the modern game.
As she enters her peak years, Bonmatí shows no signs of slowing down. Whether for club or country, her influence remains unrivalled — and her historic three-peat confirms her place among the all-time greats.
