Big step – Tessa Wullaert in top 20 of Women's Ballon d'Or

A major first for Red Flame Tessa Wullaert: the Belgian captain, aged 33, ranked 19th in the 2026 Women's Ballon d’Or ranking, the only Belgian among the 30 selected players. The vote, carried out by a jury of 50 journalists and representatives from 50 nations, was revealed before the ceremony in London.

The Trophy organizers released, before Monday evening's ceremony in London, the ranking of places 11 to 30. This revelation was broadcast via Google, allowing supporters to follow the proceedings in real time.

Performance in Serie A

Wullaert, 33, striker for Inter Milan last season, left the club last summer to join the club in Como. She finished as the top scorer of the Italian championship with 14 goals in 22 matches and top assist provider with 9 assists. These performances have reinforced her status within the Red Flames.

Belgian opponents in Europe record big triumphs and painful defeats

Ballon d’Or criteria

The Women's Ballon d’Or, awarded by France Football magazine since 2018, is based on the vote of an international jury of 50 specialist journalists and a representative from each of the 50 top nations in the FIFA ranking. The selection process aims to identify the best player of the year, under the official name WOMEN'S BALLON D’OR.

The photograph published by Photo News captures the moment when Red Flame Tessa Wullaert discovers her 19th place in the poll. This image illustrates the growing importance of women's football in Belgium and Europe.

The lower part of the ranking is beginning to be revealed, and several stars will not be present at the ceremony in London. These absences highlight the logistical challenge for players competing in various European clubs.