Top 10 Women Hockey Players in the World
Hockey is a sport that demands skill, speed, and precision. Over the years, women’s hockey has grown tremendously, producing some of the most talented athletes in the world. These players have not only dominated the game but also inspired millions with their dedication and achievements. In this article, we will look at the top 10 women hockey players in the world, highlighting their careers, achievements, and impact on the sport.
Top 10 Women Hockey Players list
1. Hayley Wickenheiser (Canada)
The Greatest of All Time
Hayley Wickenheiser is widely regarded as the best women’s hockey player in history. With a career spanning over 23 years, she has won four Olympic gold medals (2002, 2006, 2010, 2014) and seven World Championship titles.
Key Achievements:
- Most points (168) in Olympic women’s hockey history.
- First woman to score a goal in a men’s professional league (Finland’s Suomi-sarja).
- Honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019.
2. Marie-Philip Poulin (Canada)
Captain Clutch
Marie-Philip Poulin is the current face of Canadian women’s hockey. Known for her game-winning goals in big moments, she has led Canada to multiple Olympic and World Championship victories.
Key Achievements:
- Scored gold-medal-winning goals in 2010, 2014, and 2022 Olympics.
- Named MVP in multiple international tournaments.
- Captain of Canada’s national team and PWHL’s Montreal team.
Poulin’s ability to perform under pressure makes her one of the most clutch players in hockey history.
3. Hilary Knight (USA)
The American Powerhouse
Hilary Knight is one of the most dominant forwards in women’s hockey. With her physical play and scoring ability, she has been a key player for Team USA for over a decade.
Key Achievements:
- Two Olympic gold medals (2018, 2022) and multiple World Championship titles.
- All-time leading scorer in U.S. Women’s National Team history.
- Played in multiple professional leagues, including the PWHL.
Knight’s consistency and leadership make her one of the greatest American players ever.
4. Noora Räty (Finland)
The Wall of Finland
Noora Räty is considered one of the best goaltenders in women’s hockey history. Her incredible reflexes and consistency have made her a standout player for Finland.
Key Achievements:
- Led Finland to multiple Olympic and World Championship medals.
- Played in men’s professional leagues in Finland.
- Holds numerous records for shutouts and save percentages.
Räty’s performances have often kept Finland competitive against stronger teams like Canada and the USA.
5. Kendall Coyne Schofield (USA)
Speed and Skill Combined
Kendall Coyne Schofield is known for her blazing speed and offensive skills. She made history by becoming the first woman to compete in the NHL All-Star Skills Competition.
Key Achievements:
- Olympic gold medalist (2018) and multiple World Championship wins.
- Fastest skater in women’s hockey, clocking 13.72 seconds in the NHL All-Star lap.
- Advocate for women’s hockey and gender equality in sports.
Her speed and leadership make her a crucial player for Team USA.
6. Caroline Ouellette (Canada)
The Complete Player
Caroline Ouellette was one of the most versatile and consistent players in women’s hockey. She could play both forward and defense at an elite level.
Key Achievements:
- Honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019.
- World Championship titles with Canada.
- Received Hockey Hall of Fame induction in 2023.
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7. mAanda Kessel (USA)
The Offensive Dynamo
Amanda Kessel is one of the most skilled forwards in women’s hockey. Her playmaking and scoring ability have made her a star for Team USA.
Key Achievements:
- Olympic gold medalist (2018) and multiple World Championship wins.
- Captured the NCAA title while playing for the University of Minnesota.
- Known for her incredible puck-handling and hockey IQ.
Kessel’s creativity on the ice makes her a constant threat to opponents.
8. Florence Schelling (Switzerland)
The Swiss Goaltending Legend
Florence Schelling is the greatest Swiss women’s hockey player ever. Her goaltending heroics have carried Switzerland to new heights.
Key Achievements:
- Led Switzerland to a historic Olympic bronze medal in 2014.
- Named best goaltender in multiple World Championships.
- Played professionally in men’s leagues in Switzerland.
Schelling’s performances made Switzerland a competitive team on the world stage.
9. Brianna Decker (USA)
The Playmaking Genius
Brianna Decker is one of the best two-way forwards in women’s hockey. Her ability to control the game makes her a vital player for Team USA.
Key Achievements:
- Olympic gold medalist (2018) and multiple World Championship wins.
- Patty Kazmaier Award winner (best NCAA player).
- Known for her elite passing and defensive play.
Decker’s hockey sense and work ethic set her apart from others.
10. Jennifer Botterill (Canada)
The Dominant Forward
Jennifer Botterill was one of the most dominant scorers in women’s hockey history. Her combination of size, skill, and intelligence made her unstoppable.
Key Achievements:
- Captured Olympic gold three times—in 2002, 2006, and 2010.
- Two-time Patty Kazmaier Award winner.
- Enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2017.
Conclusion
These top 10 women hockey players have not only achieved greatness on the ice but have also paved the way for future generations. From Hayley Wickenheiser’s unmatched legacy to Marie-Philip Poulin’s clutch performances, each of these athletes has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Women’s hockey continues to grow, and with the rise of leagues like the PWHL, the future looks brighter than ever. These players have shown that with talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible. Who do you think is the greatest women’s hockey player of all time? Let us know in the comments!