The inspiring mural in Sant Pere de Ribes, Spain, encapsulates the ethos of Aitana Bonmatí: "Win or learn. You never lose." Situated just 25 miles from Barcelona, this small town of 30,000 inhabitants is where the journey of the world’s best women’s soccer player began. Bonmatí, who proudly holds a Ballon d’Or trophy, is depicted embracing a younger version of herself, a symbol of her remarkable path in the sport.
At 27 years old, Bonmatí has already accumulated an impressive collection of trophies. Her sights are now set on achieving Spain’s first UEFA Women’s Euro title in Switzerland, marking another milestone in her extraordinary career. Recently, she rejoined the national team following a brief hospitalization due to viral meningitis, showcasing her resilience and dedication.
Bonmatí’s journey to stardom started in her hometown, where she was often the only girl playing soccer among boys. “My first memory is playing soccer in the schoolyard of Escola El Pi,” she recalls. She emphasizes how much has changed for women in sports since her childhood, noting the lack of female role models during her formative years.
Raised in a household that prioritized gender equality, Bonmatí was named with her mother’s surname first, a bold move in traditional Spanish culture. This commitment to equality has been a guiding principle throughout her life. At just 14, she made a pivotal choice to join the Barcelona Femení Academy, eager to don the colors of her idols, such as Andrés Iniesta and Xavi.
However, the path was not without its challenges, as Barcelona did not have a fully professional women’s team at the time. Despite considering a move to the University of Oregon in the United States, where women’s soccer was already gaining traction, she ultimately decided to stay in Barcelona. Her choice paid off when, in 2015, Barcelona’s board transformed the future of women’s soccer by making their women’s team professional.
Bonmatí quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key player as Barcelona Femení achieved historic milestones. The team now boasts six league titles, three UEFA Women’s Champions League titles, and several national cups, solidifying its status as one of the most recognized women’s soccer clubs globally. “I think that women’s football has grown a lot in Spain in the last six or seven years,” Bonmatí says, crediting Barça’s commitment to the women’s game.
The overwhelming support for women’s soccer was evident when Barcelona set world attendance records, with over 91,000 fans filling Camp Nou for crucial matches. “It’s almost impossible for any other team,” Bonmatí states, highlighting the profound social impact her team has had.
In 2023, Bonmatí played a crucial role in Spain’s historic World Cup victory, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. As a midfield maestro, she orchestrates the game’s rhythm, showcasing her leadership through distinctive gestures. “I constantly scan the game and evaluate all the possibilities,” she explains, underscoring her tactical acumen.
The journey to the World Cup was fraught with challenges, including a tense atmosphere surrounding the team. Bonmatí was part of a group of players who initially declared themselves unavailable due to concerns over their coach’s impact on their well-being. Ultimately, the team united to achieve the unexpected—winning the World Cup against all odds.
Despite their triumph, celebrations were marred by controversy surrounding the actions of the Spanish Football Federation’s then-president. “Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to truly enjoy this achievement because of everything that happened,” Bonmatí reflects. Following the scandal, the team chose to stand in solidarity, emphasizing their commitment to equality and respect in sports.
Winning two FIFA Ballon d’Or awards underscores Bonmatí’s prowess on the field, but her influence extends beyond trophies. She has emerged as a powerful advocate for women’s sports, using her platform to push for better conditions and representation. “I have a responsibility that goes beyond the playing field,” she states, highlighting the importance of institutional support in driving meaningful change.
As a role model for aspiring athletes, especially young girls, Bonmatí recognizes the doors her generation has opened. However, she acknowledges that much work remains to be done in creating lasting societal impact. “I believe a lot has been left undone,” she asserts, expressing a desire to capitalize on the current momentum in women’s sports.
With the next UEFA Women’s European Championships on the horizon, Bonmatí is focused on achieving her goal of lifting the trophy. “It’s one of the few competitions I have yet to win,” she notes, reflecting her relentless pursuit of excellence.
In her hometown, the mural’s message rings true: “Win or learn. You never lose.” Aitana Bonmatí’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, equality, and the transformative impact of women’s soccer.
