Malawi Scorchers vice-captain Temwa Chawinga has finished 10th in the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or rankings, marking a historic achievement for Malawi and African women’s football. Chawinga, who plays for United States-based Kansas City Current, emerged as the highest-ranked African female footballer in this year’s award standings. Meanwhile, Zambia’s Barbra Banda finished 18th in the rankings, while Spain’s Alexia Putellas won the coveted Women’s Ballon d’Or trophy. Chawinga’s top-10 finish further raises Malawi’s profile on the global football stage, following her impressive performances for club and country.