The United States women’s national soccer team concluded the year ranked No. 1 in the FIFA standings.
Under the guidance of coach Emma Hayes, the team secured a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, marking a significant turnaround after a lackluster year where they lost their status as world champions to Spain, who emerged as the leading force in women’s soccer.

The team’s victory in France, where they defeated Brazil 1-0 in the final match, allowed them to ascend four positions in the FIFA rankings to claim the top spot in August.
The final rankings for the year were released on Friday, confirming that the U.S. maintained its lead.

Initially, defending world champion Spain occupied the top position at the start of the year but fell to third place after suffering defeat in the bronze medal match at the Olympics.
Meanwhile, the latest rankings placed Spain in second position.
European champions, England, have dropped from second to fourth, while Olympic bronze medalists, Germany, are currently in third place.

Historically, the U.S. has been a powerhouse in women’s soccer, winning four World Cups and five Olympic gold medals.
However, they faced an early exit in the round of 16 during the last World Cup, eliminated by Sweden.
Emma Hayes, who has enjoyed substantial success with Chelsea — securing 15 major trophies, including seven Women’s Super League titles — took over as head coach of the U.S. team in May, leading them to a triumphant tournament at the Paris Olympics soon after.