The Spanish footballer from Barcelona emerges victorious in FIFA’s annual The Best award for 2022, triumphing over prominent names from the global women’s game, including Alex Morgan of the United States and Beth Mead of England. The announcement, made on a Monday in late February, marks Putellas’s continued ascent in a year that showcased resilience, skill, and consistent excellence on the world stage.
Alexia Putellas, a central figure for FC Barcelona, added another accolade to her already illustrious cabinet after a year that featured a remarkable return to form. Having claimed her second Ballon d’Or at the end of 2022, she reaffirmed the high level she demonstrated in 2021. The Best award, which recognizes performance through the previous calendar year, underscored her steady impact despite facing a knee injury that sidelined her for a significant stretch of 2022.
In a season framed by intense demands, Putellas demonstrated leadership and technical mastery that many observers equate with redefining how midfield play can influence outcomes. Her ability to influence games from deep positions, orchestrate attacks, and contribute defensively helped Barcelona remain competitive in domestic and European competitions alike. Even with limited on-pitch time during crucial moments, her presence and previous achievements carried substantial weight in the voting, reinforcing a narrative about resilience and peak form returning after injury.
The Best awards also acknowledged standout performances beyond the central player. Mary Earps, Manchester United’s goalkeeper, earned the title of best goalkeeper for 2022, a recognition that highlighted the importance of shot-stopping, command of the penalty area, and distribution from the back in modern football. In coaching, Sarina Wiegman, who guides the England national team, received the award for best coach of the year, underscoring the impact of clear tactical philosophy and sustained team performance across a demanding schedule.
Beyond the individual honors, a contingent of Spanish stars earned recognition as part of the best women’s team of the year. The lineup reflects a blend of experience and rising talent, including players who have become synonymous with elite level competition. The roster, assembled from top clubs and national teams, demonstrates the depth of talent in Spanish women’s football and its expanding influence on the sport globally.
The Best FIFA awards have long celebrated the convergence of individual skill and team success. Putellas’s sustained excellence in 2022 exemplifies how a player can elevate a squad through creativity, consistency, and a deep understanding of the game. Her contributions extended beyond scoring or assists, shaping midfield tempo, pressing intensity, and the strategic build-up that helped Barcelona maintain a high level of performance across competitions.
In analyzing the year’s events, observers note that the award’s voting reflects a balance between peak moments and overall influence across the season. Putellas’s recent Ballon d’Or triumph reaffirms her status as one of the era’s defining players for club and country, while the continued recognition of Earps and Wiegman highlights the broader ecosystem that supports success at the highest level.
As the football world looks ahead, questions about future stars and potential repeat performances will circulate among fans and analysts alike. Yet the 2022 The Best winner’s path serves as a reminder of how perseverance, technical prowess, and leadership contribute to lasting greatness in the sport. The achievement stands as a milestone not only for Putellas but for the sport’s evolving landscape, where top performers from diverse leagues shape the global game for years to come.