Ballon d’Or: France Football magazine announces nomination for women
France Football magazine, on Monday, disclosed that women’s Ballon d’Or will be awarded for the first time this year.
The magazine also disclosed that it has shortlisted 15 nominees to be named alongside 30 male contenders next month for the global football prize, Reuters reports.
The yearly award, which will hold in Paris on December 8, has been a regular feature for men since 1956, with England great, Stanley Matthews winning the inaugural trophy.
Speaking with the magazine, France and Olympique Lyonnais defender, Wendie Renard told the magazine, “It is a step forward, women’s football is evolving and inequality is shrinking even though there is still room for improvement.”
Also speaking, Brazil’s Marta said, “I’ve always wanted to see a woman win this prestigious award.”
The Ballon d’Or award was partnered with FIFA from 2010 to 2015, until becoming its own entity once again.
