From Ban To Ballon d’Or Nominee: Temwa Chawinga’s Rise Inspires Malawi
Malawi international Temwa Chawinga has been nominated for the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, earning a place on the shortlist for the second consecutive year.
The US-based forward, who represents both her club and the Malawi Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, has been recognised following another strong period of performances.
Chawinga first received global recognition at the Ballon d’Or last year when she secured her maiden nomination, becoming one of the Malawian players to reach the shortlist for the prestigious individual award. Her return to the list this year further underlines her growing profile in women’s football.
Temwa Chawinga’s Accolades
🏆 2026 Ballon d’Or Nominee
🏆 2026 WAFCON Golden Boot
🏆 2026 WAFCON Best XI
🏆 2025 Ballon d’Or Nominee
🏆 2025 NWSL MVP Award
🏆 2025 NWSL Golden Boot
🏆 2025 Best XI First Team
🏆 2024 NWSL MVP Award
🏆 2024 Golden Boot
🏆 2024 Best XI First Team
The Ballon d’Or, organised annually by France Football, is widely regarded as one of the highest individual honours in the sport, recognising outstanding performers in both men’s and women’s football.
Chawinga’s continued presence among the nominees also represents an important moment for Malawian football. Her performances at club and international level have helped place the country’s women’s game on a wider global platform.
The nomination comes alongside recognition for several of the world’s leading female players, setting the stage for another competitive race for the prestigious award.
The winner of the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or will be announced later this year, with Chawinga now hoping to go one step further after making the shortlist for a second successive time.
