Chelsea and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has been named BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025, capping off a remarkable 12 months for club and country. Hampton played a pivotal role as Chelsea claimed a domestic treble, keeping 13 clean sheets in 22 Women's Super League games, and emerged as a hero for England during Euro 2025, saving crucial penalties in both the quarter-final and final.
At Euro 2025 in Switzerland, Hampton helped England defend their European crown. She saved two penalties in a marathon shootout against Sweden in the quarter-finals and then denied Mariona Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati in the final against Spain, helping the Lionesses triumph 3-1. Reflecting on her performances, Hampton said: “It was my way of giving back to the team. They've run around for 120 minutes to make it go that far, and they've helped defend heroically. This was my moment to show what I can do for them.”
Hampton’s journey to becoming England’s first-choice goalkeeper was not without challenges. She replaced Mary Earps and faced intense scrutiny after Earps criticized her in an autobiography, claiming Hampton had previously been “disruptive and unreliable.” Hampton, however, remained focused, stating: “People are entitled to their opinions… I’m just going to focus on myself. I want to achieve a lot more in the game and I can’t dwell on people’s thoughts.”
Off the pitch, Hampton faced personal adversity, losing her grandfather just two days before the Euros, which she described as giving her “that extra push to show everyone what I can do.” Despite the pressure, she emphasized enjoying her football as key to performing at her best.
At 25, Hampton is only the second goalkeeper to win the award, following Earps in 2023. She praised those who came before her, noting how former England goalkeepers like Carly Telford, Karen Bardsley, and Mary Earps helped raise the profile of women’s goalkeeping: “Women’s goalkeeping has definitely taken off. We’re trying to change perceptions slowly but surely.”
Finishing first in the public vote, Hampton edged out England teammate Alessia Russo, who came second, and Spain’s Aitana Bonmati, who placed third. Other nominees included Spain’s Patri Guijarro and Mariona Caldentey, selected by a panel of experts.
Hampton’s award caps a year of triumphs, resilience, and standout performances, cementing her status as one of the top talents in women’s football today.