Mexican soccer player Charlyn Corral has made history by receiving the Gerd Müller trophy for Best Striker of the Year at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, becoming the first woman from Mexico to achieve this prestigious honor. This recognition not only highlights her remarkable journey in soccer, spanning over two decades, but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation, reflecting the growing acknowledgment and support for women’s sports in Mexico.
During her heartfelt acceptance speech at the London Palladium Theatre, Corral expressed immense pride in her achievement, stating, “The hard work, discipline, and effort have been worth it.” Her dedication shines through as she shared this moment with the community that has supported her, including her family, coaching staff, and fellow players.
Charlyn Corral, who scored an impressive 49 goals in 49 matches for Club Pachuca Femenil and the national team, shares this accolade with English striker Harry Kane, who won the same award in the men’s category. Corral’s achievement comes just a year after Ewa Pajor received the award, marking only the second time it has been presented in the women’s category.
In her speech, she dedicated her victory to the management and coaching staff of Club Pachuca and acknowledged her family’s unwavering support, emphasizing their pivotal role in her career. Corral celebrated Mexico’s advancements in women’s soccer by praising compatriot Scarlett Camberos, recognized among the world’s top players, and urged people to continue supporting the growth of women’s sports.
Adding to her accolades, earlier this year, Corral was recognized by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics as the world’s top goalscorer for the second consecutive year, totaling 57 goals in 2025. Her contributions have led to significant achievements for Pachuca, including winning the 2025 Clausura tournament in Liga Femenil.
This recognition of Charlyn Corral underscores the positive developments in women’s soccer in Mexico, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions with determination and heart.