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Women's Ballon d'Or Power Rankings Emerge: Who Are the Early Frontrunners?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 1:42 GMT by CBSSports.com

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The Race is On: Power Rankings Emerge for the 2026 Women's Ballon d'Or

The anticipation surrounding the next Women’s Ballon d'Or is already building, and CBS Sports has released an early power ranking of potential contenders vying for football’s most prestigious individual award. While it's still relatively early in the cycle leading up to the 2026 ceremony (the first edition incorporating a four-year rotation aligning with men's Ballon d'Or), the rankings offer fascinating insight into which players are setting themselves apart and what factors will likely influence the final decision. The piece, written by Lisa Carlin, highlights a shifting landscape in women’s football, where dominance isn’t guaranteed and several rising stars threaten to challenge established icons.

The Reigning Queen & Her Closest Rivals:

For years, Alex Morgan has been a constant presence among Ballon d'Or discussions. However, the CBS Sports rankings place her at number five, indicating a shift in momentum. While still a significant force for the San Diego Wave and the USWNT, Morgan’s performances haven't reached the heights of previous years, and injuries have hampered consistency. The piece acknowledges that if she can rediscover peak form and lead her club to success, she could climb back into contention.

Leading the pack are two names dominating their respective leagues: Melchie Dumornay and Aitana Bonmatí. Dumornay, a Haitian-Canadian midfielder playing for Lyon in France's Division 1 Féminine, tops the list. Her explosive talent, creativity, and increasingly influential role at both club and international level have made her a standout performer. Lyon’s continued success will be crucial to bolstering her claim. The article emphasizes Dumornay's ability to dictate tempo, unlock defenses with incisive passes, and contribute goals – qualities highly valued by Ballon d'Or voters. Her relative obscurity outside of Europe also presents an interesting dynamic; increased exposure on a global stage could significantly boost her recognition.

Bonmatí, the Spanish midfield maestro who spearheaded Barcelona’s historic treble-winning season last year (as detailed in numerous reports, including those linked within the CBS article), sits at number two. Her exceptional vision, passing range, and technical skill are undeniable. While Barcelona's dominance has lessened somewhat this season due to key departures and injuries, Bonmatí remains a vital player for both club and country. The piece notes that her continued excellence will be essential if she hopes to surpass Dumornay. The article also points out the potential impact of Spain’s performance in future international tournaments – success on the world stage is often a significant factor in Ballon d'Or voting.

Rising Stars & Consistent Performers:

Following Bonmatí, the rankings feature several other players who are steadily building their cases. Catarina Amorim, another Lyon standout and Portuguese national team captain, comes in at number three. Amorim’s dynamic attacking play and goal-scoring ability have made her a key player for both club and country. Her consistency throughout the season is highlighted as a major strength.

Chelsea's standout forward, Sam Kerr, occupies the fourth spot. Kerr continues to be a prolific scorer and a driving force for Chelsea in the Women’s Super League. However, injuries have impacted her form recently, which has slightly dampened her chances. The article acknowledges that if Kerr can stay fit and lead Chelsea to silverware, she could easily move up the rankings.

Beyond these top contenders, the list includes several other players worth watching. Lauren James (England/Chelsea) is highlighted as a potential dark horse, possessing immense talent but needing to refine consistency and discipline. The article notes her explosive pace and dribbling ability make her a constant threat. Regarding the linked article on James' disciplinary record, it’s clear that maintaining composure will be crucial for her Ballon d'Or aspirations. Similarly, Grace Clinton (England/Tottenham Hotspur), is listed as an emerging talent to keep an eye on.

Factors Shaping the Race:

The CBS Sports piece emphasizes several key factors that will influence the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or race:

• Team Success: As always, team achievements – Champions League titles, league championships, and international tournament victories – will play a significant role.
• Individual Performance: Consistent high-level performances week in and week out are essential. Goals scored, assists provided, and overall impact on the game all contribute to a player's standing.
• International Exposure: Increased visibility on a global stage is crucial for players from outside Europe’s dominant leagues. Dumornay’s rise exemplifies this point.
• Injury Record: Staying fit throughout the season is paramount. Injuries can derail even the most promising campaigns.
• The Four-Year Cycle: The introduction of a four-year cycle, mirroring the men's Ballon d'Or, means performances over a longer period will be considered. This encourages sustained excellence rather than fleeting moments of brilliance.

Conclusion: A Wide Open Race

The 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or race promises to be incredibly competitive. While Melchie Dumornay currently holds the edge, Aitana Bonmatí and other contenders are hot on her heels. The shifting dynamics in women's football, coupled with the increased global exposure of the sport, mean that anything can happen. The CBS Sports power rankings provide a valuable snapshot of the current landscape, but the journey to Paris in 2026 is long, and many twists and turns undoubtedly lie ahead. It will be fascinating to observe how these players evolve and compete for football’s most prestigious individual honor.