Barbra Banda has been crowned the winner of the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2024. The Zambian striker, who dazzled on the field for both her national team and Orlando Pride, has ascended to new heights since signing with the American club earlier this year. Known for her electrifying performances, Banda's influence on the game has been nothing short of remarkable.
Banda didn’t just arrive at the World Cup; she made history. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she scored four goals, including a stunning hat trick against Australia, solidifying her status as Africa’s all-time top scorer with ten goals at the Olympics. Her previous Olympic experience at Tokyo 2021 set the stage for this impressive feat.
Celebrated for its tenth year, the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year Award involves nominations from a panel comprised of football professionals, coaches, and journalists. The final winner is determined by global fans through online voting. Banda comments on her win, stating, “I am shocked and surprised to have this award by my side. My teammates have been pushing for me to be where I am right now and to have this trophy.” She finds joy and fulfillment in scoring goals, attributing her success to hard work and consistency.
Player performance from September 2023 to August 2024 formed the basis for the shortlist this year, which included other prominent players like Aitana Bonmati from Barcelona, Sophia Smith of Portland Thorns, Caroline Graham Hansen from Norway, and American Naomi Girma. Banda emerged victoriously, expressing gratitude to fans, saying, “Thank you so much for the support... and thank you for joining the Bandawagon!”
Banda's accomplishments on the pitch have attracted attention, particularly due to her start at Orlando Pride, where she made the remarkable impression of scoring twelve goals within her first twelve matches. Seb Hines, the head coach of the Pride, highlighted her humility and team-oriented mindset, stating, “She is super humble and a good person.”
The 24-year-old striker not only garnered national excitement but was also named Most Valuable Player (MVP) within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She played solidly throughout the season, contributing significantly to her team’s championship victory with the winning goal during the NWSL playoffs.
Jon Zilkha, Controller of BBC World Service English, recognized Banda's hard work during her tenure, pointing out her dedication and impact on football as reasons she is the deserving winner this year. He remarked, “Barbra’s hard work, dedication, and exceptional performance on the pitch have made her a very worthy winner of the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award for 2024.”
With this accolade, Banda has joined the ranks of previous winners, including Mary Earps, Beth Mead, Vivianne Miedema, and Lucy Bronze—players who have shaped women’s football over the years. Banda's achievement is particularly notable as she is only the second African to win the award, the first being Nigeria's Aisha Oshoala.
Reflecting on her national pride, she emphasizes the significant role she hopes to play for future generations. “I love Zambia. Just wearing our national jersey means so much to me. The youngsters who are coming up, the boys and girls who are looking up to me make it all worthwhile.” Banda shared her aspirations of advancing the game of football within Africa.
Ever since her career began, the 24-year-old has been breaking barriers. Growing up, she encountered numerous challenges as girls weren’t always encouraged to pursue sports like football. She recounted how her mother initially did not support her ambitions, but as women’s football gained recognition, she eventually understood Banda's passion and allowed her to chase her dreams. This change exemplifies not just Banda's determination but also the shifting perspectives on women's sports in her home country.
Beyond her prowess on the field, Banda boasts a unique background as she was once an accomplished professional boxer—a detail many may not know about this rising star. She won five bouts before making the transition to football.
Winning such prestigious recognition serves not only as personal acknowledgment for Banda but also as inspiration for many aspiring female footballers. Her commitment to training, improvement, and teamwork reflects the spirit needed to excel and break through challenges. Banda’s message of gratitude to her supporters echoes the sentiment of countless athletes who understand the importance of community behind their success.
Looking forwards, Banda's career is poised for even greater heights. Following her recent individual accolades and her contribution to team success, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how she'll continue to evolve as a player, both on the national and international stages. Her influence, positivity, and pursuit of excellence portray where the future of women's football is headed—forward, upwards, and beyond traditional boundaries.
The recognition received by Banda is undeniably well-deserved, and it showcases the incredible potential within women’s football, particularly from African players. Banda is not only making history on the pitch but is also paving the way for the next generation of female athletes who dare to dream and achieve greatness.
