Brazilian football legend Marta, a six-time FIFA Women’s Best Player winner, added another milestone to her illustrious career by claiming the first-ever Marta Award at the Fifa The Best 2024 ceremony. Held at the Aspire Academy in Doha, Qatar, the award honored the most beautiful goal in women’s football for the 2023/24 season. The historic goal was scored on June 1st during Brazil’s 4-0 victory over Jamaica in a friendly match, a moment that showcased Marta’s enduring brilliance and skill.
The Marta Award marks a significant step forward in recognizing women’s achievements in football. Named after the player widely regarded as the greatest in women’s football history, this award reflects FIFA’s commitment to giving equal visibility to the female side of the sport.
The goal that captivated the world
The winning goal came during Brazil’s dominant performance against Jamaica at the Arena Pernambuco. Marta, wearing the iconic yellow jersey, once again demonstrated her class and exceptional talent. After receiving the ball near the midfield, she dribbled past a defender with ease and launched a powerful strike from the edge of the box that flew into the top corner. The goalkeeper had no chance, and the crowd erupted in admiration for the stunning play.
The goal sealed Brazil’s emphatic 4-0 victory and symbolized Marta’s mastery of the game. In her acceptance speech, Marta expressed joy and gratitude for receiving an award bearing her name:
“I am so happy with this result. Competing with so many talented players was an honor. The season was full of incredible goals, and receiving an award like this, with my name, is truly special.”
The creation of the Marta Award
The Marta Award is the women’s counterpart to the Puskás Award, which has honored the most beautiful goals in football since its inception in 2009. Until now, men and women competed together for the Puskás, but no female player had ever won the prize in its 15-year history. The introduction of the Marta Award is a significant milestone, addressing the need to shine a brighter spotlight on women’s football achievements.
The decision to name the award after Marta is a tribute to her legendary career and her status as a role model for women in sports. As the first active player—male or female—to receive such recognition from FIFA, Marta’s impact on football continues to transcend generations.
The award also highlights the growing professionalism and competitiveness of women’s football, as global audiences continue to embrace the sport.
Marta’s unparalleled legacy
Marta Vieira da Silva, born in Dois Riachos, Alagoas, began her professional career with Vasco da Gama before moving on to international clubs such as Umeå IK in Sweden and Orlando Pride in the United States. Over a career spanning two decades, she has amassed countless accolades and etched her name into football history.
Marta holds the record for winning the FIFA World Player of the Year award six times (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2018)—a feat unmatched in football. Additionally, she remains the all-time top scorer of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with 17 goals, underscoring her dominance on the international stage.
Her leadership, skill, and unwavering dedication have not only elevated her own career but also paved the way for the growth of women’s football worldwide. Marta’s influence is felt far beyond the pitch, inspiring generations of young players to dream bigger.
Finalists for the Marta Award 2024
The Marta Award finalists featured some of the most outstanding goals in women’s football over the past season. Below are the nominated players and their spectacular goals:
- Delphine Cascarino (Lyon) – Goal against Benfica on March 27, 2024.
- Marina Hegering (Wolfsburg) – Goal against Essen on January 29, 2024.
- Sakina Karchaoui (France) – Goal against Sweden on July 12, 2024.
- Paulina Krumbiegel (Hoffenheim) – Goal against Duisburg on February 2, 2024.
- Nina Matejic (Serbia) – Goal against England on July 17, 2024.
- Beth Mead (Arsenal) – Goal against West Ham on November 26, 2023.
- Giuseppina Moraca (Lazio) – Goal against Bologna on October 15, 2023.
- Asisat Oshoala (Barcelona) – Goal against Benfica on November 14, 2023.
- Mayra Pelayo (Mexico) – Goal against the United States on February 27, 2024.
- Trinity Rodman (United States) – Goal against Japan on August 3, 2024.
The diverse range of nationalities, leagues, and clubs among the finalists demonstrates the global growth of women’s football and the increasing quality of competition.
The global stage of Fifa The Best 2024
The Fifa The Best Awards, launched in 2001, celebrate the finest players, coaches, and moments in football. Held at the Aspire Academy in Doha, this year’s ceremony brought together the sport’s top talent to honor their achievements during the 2023/24 season. The voting system includes four key groups: journalists, national team captains, coaches, and fans, with each group contributing 25% to the final outcome.
Marta doing Marta things. ????
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) December 7, 2024
Have you had your say on who should be the first-ever Marta Award winner? ⬇️
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The analysis period for the Marta Award spanned from August 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024, covering the full 2023/24 season.
Marta’s influence on women’s football
Marta’s influence on women’s football is immeasurable. She remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring players, especially in Brazil, where the women’s game has long struggled for resources and recognition. Her career stands as proof that determination and talent can overcome even the greatest challenges.
By naming the award after Marta, FIFA acknowledges her contributions to the game and sets a precedent for honoring women’s achievements. The Marta Award encourages greater visibility for female players and highlights the importance of continuing to push for equality in football.
Women’s football: growth and recognition
Women’s football has experienced unprecedented growth over the last decade. Rising viewership for major tournaments, increased investment in professional leagues, and the global popularity of players like Marta, Megan Rapinoe, and Sam Kerr have reshaped the sport.
The Marta Award comes at a pivotal time, as efforts to promote gender equality in football gain momentum. By celebrating the beauty and artistry of goals scored by women, FIFA provides a stage that showcases their talent and inspires future generations.
A goal for the ages
Marta’s winning goal at the 2024 Marta Award will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the great moments in football history. The elegance, creativity, and precision displayed in that single play are hallmarks of a player who has spent her career redefining excellence.
As the sport continues to evolve, Marta remains its guiding light—an athlete who, with every touch of the ball, reminds the world of football’s beauty and the limitless potential of women’s sports.
