England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was crowned the best women’s goalkeeper in the world on Monday night, winning the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
The 24-year-old Chelsea star capped off a dream year after guiding her club to a domestic treble and helping the Lionesses retain their European crown in Switzerland.
In her acceptance speech, Hampton paid a heartfelt tribute to Matt Beard, the former Liverpool Women’s manager who tragically passed away on Saturday aged 47.
“The women’s game sadly on Saturday lost a real trailblazer, Matt Beard. Matt was someone who cared an awful lot for the women’s game when no one else did.
He lit up the room when everyone was in it. And this is just a message to show that not everyone should have to go through these dark moments alone. Sometimes the brightest smiles in the room hide the heaviest pain. He’ll be greatly missed.”
Her words drew emotional applause in Paris, underlining Beard’s impact on the growth of women’s football in England.
Hampton was central to Chelsea’s dominance, producing standout saves across the season as the Blues swept the WSL, FA Cup and League Cup.
She then carried that form onto the international stage, saving two penalties in the Euro 2025 final shootout against Spain as England triumphed 3-1 to defend their European title.
Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman was also honoured at the ceremony, named Women’s Coach of the Year.
The Yashin Trophy is a fitting reward for Hampton’s consistency, resilience and leadership. Already a European champion and multiple-time domestic winner, she now joins the conversation among the game’s greatest modern goalkeepers.
Her triumph also highlights the continued rise of the Lionesses, who remain at the forefront of women’s football globally.
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✍️ Written by Abdul Noah Ocholi | Sports Market International
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