Despite being overlooked for Jamaica’s annual RJRGleaner Sportswoman of the Year award, Khadija "Bunny" Shaw continues to earn global acclaim. The Jamaican and Manchester City Women’s striker has been ranked as the fourth-best female footballer in the world for 2024 by the UK Guardian newspaper in its annual rankings of the top 100 female players.

Shaw’s outstanding performances this year have solidified her place among the game’s elite. She leads the Women’s Super League (WSL) in scoring with nine goals this season and has added five more in the Women’s UEFA Champions League, showcasing her lethal finishing and consistency at the highest level. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she was earlier named the PFA Women’s Player of the Year and the Football Writers’ Association Women’s Player of the Year, cementing her status as one of the game’s brightest stars.

The Guardian’s list, compiled by a panel of 99 judges, crowned Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmatí as the world’s best female player for the second consecutive year. Bonmatí, who also won the Ballon d’Or, topped the rankings by a significant margin over her Barcelona teammate Caroline Graham Hansen.

Shaw’s rise into the top five reflects a shifting dynamic in women’s football, with emerging talents disrupting the traditional dominance of established stars. With Sam Kerr missing significant time due to injury, Shaw joins other breakout performers like Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Zambia’s Barbra Banda in breaking into the top 10 for the first time.

Shaw’s ranking highlights her remarkable talent and underscores the growing influence of Caribbean players in global football. Her ability to excel under pressure for both club and country has made her a pivotal figure in the sport and a source of immense pride for Jamaica.

As she continues to shine in the WSL and Champions League, Shaw’s remarkable trajectory reaffirms her as a leading force in women’s football, bridging the gap between local recognition and her global impact.