The first winner of FIFA’s Marta Award is, well, Marta.
She has made history by receiving the inaugural FIFA award for the best goal in women’s soccer, an honor named after the Brazilian legend herself.
At the age of 38, Marta was celebrated at FIFA’s “The Best” awards on Tuesday, acknowledging her stunning goal for Brazil during an international friendly against Jamaica in June.
Previously, the Puskas Award encompassed all of soccer, but this year it was split to honor the best goal in the men’s game—awarded to Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho—and to establish the Marta Award specifically for women’s achievements.
“Competing against so many talented players and witnessing incredible goals has been remarkable,” she remarked. “This season has been extraordinary, but receiving an award that carries my name is the highest honor I could ask for.”
Marta is often hailed as the greatest female soccer player in history, having claimed the title of women’s player of the year six times, setting a record.
She has netted an impressive 119 goals in 185 appearances for Brazil, participating in six World Cups and six Olympics, before stepping away from international competition following the Paris Games, where Brazil faced the United States in the final.
Recently, Marta achieved her first NWSL title when the Orlando Pride triumphed over Washington Spirit 1-0 in the final, contributing with a goal in the semifinal.
The day before the championship match, Marta humorously addressed whether she might award herself the Marta Award.
“The decision is up to you, the fans, who vote for the best goal of the year. It would be amusing if Marta’s Award went to Marta!” she laughed.
Voting for the Marta Award was conducted by fans alongside a panel of FIFA legends, ensuring a democratic process in recognizing excellence in women’s soccer.
