London, October 26, 2026 — Charlyn Corral made history by receiving the Women’s Striker of the Year award during the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony, held at the London Palladium. With this recognition, the Pachuca forward became the first Mexican footballer—in both the women's and men's categories—to win an individual award in the history of this ceremony.
Former English striker Alan Shearer presented her with the award. Charlyn took to the stage alongside Harry Kane, who received the Men’s Striker of the Year award. Both were honored in their respective categories during a ceremony that gathered the leading figures of international football.
After the result was announced, one of the first congratulations came from Jorge Campos, who expressed his praise for the Mexican forward's achievement. His reaction joined numerous expressions of support and pride generated by the award, which represents a significant milestone for women's football in Mexico.
The award recognizes a 2025–2026 season in which Corral recorded 49 goals in 49 official matches, according to figures released by Club Pachuca. Her goal-scoring ability is also reflected in her career achievements: in Spain, she became the first Mexican woman to win the league's Pichichi trophy, scoring 24 goals for Levante in the 2017–2018 season, while in Liga MX Femenil she has won five goal-scoring titles, four of them consecutively.
At 35 years old, Corral has built a career spanning more than two decades, from her early days with the Mexican National Team to establishing herself as one of the top figures in national women's football. The recognition in London marks a new chapter in a career built on goals, consistency, and a presence that has helped elevate the international profile of Mexican football.
Upon receiving the award, Charlyn dedicated a few words to the women and football of her country: “This award belongs to all of you”—a phrase that captures the impact of an achievement that transcends her individual career.
