The Golden Boot (formerly the Golden Shoe) goes to the top scorer at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
When players finish level on goals, FIFA uses assists and then fewest minutes played to decide the winner.
Use the table below to scan every Golden Boot winner, compare tallies, and spark great football chats with your young players.
Golden Boot Winners (1991–2023
*Boot entries reflect the primary line worn at the tournament. Where marked “(verify)”, confirm via a match photo or trusted boot source before removing the tag.
How FIFA breaks ties for the Golden Boot
If players finish level on goals, FIFA uses assists first and then fewest minutes played to decide the winner.
That’s how Célia Šašić edged Carli Lloyd in 2015, and Megan Rapinoe beat Alex Morgan and Ellen White in 2019.
Quick records worth knowing
- Most goals at a single Women’s World Cup: Michelle Akers (USA) — 10 in 1991.
- Shared awards: 1999 was shared by Sissi (Brazil) and Sun Wen (China PR), both on 7 goals.
- Golden Boot vs Golden Ball: the Golden Boot is top scorer; the Golden Ball is best overall player (e.g., Marta won both awards in 2007).
Kid‑friendly boot ideas for Ireland
Looking for junior boots that echo World Cup winners’ styles but suit real‑world school pitches, 3G/4G and weekend grass? Start with these proven lines, then choose the right plate for where your child actually plays.
- Nike Mercurial (kids) — Great for narrow feet and a “speed” fit; snappy traction. Choose MG for mixed weeks, TF for astro cages, IN for halls.
- PUMA Future (kids) — Forgiving for average to slightly wide feet thanks to the FUZIONFIT midfoot band; secure lockdown without pressure points. MG/TF/IN available.
- adidas Predator (kids) — A bit more “grip” on the ball for confident passing and shooting. Works well for many foot shapes. FG/MG/TF options.
- adidas Copa Pure (kids) — Softer, more cushioned feel; a comfort‑first choice for longer sessions. FG/MG/TF.
- Nike Tiempo (kids) — Another comfort pick with stable traction and a padded feel. FG/MG/TF.
- Futsal/indoor only: Look for TF (astro) or IN (flat, non‑marking) versions across the lines above.
Value tip: At grassroots level, Academy / Club / Play tiers are ideal; they’re durable, comfortable and far better value than elite‑level boots kids outgrow quickly.
Sizing & fit tips for growing feet
- Aim for ~0.5–0.7 cm of toe room; feet shouldn’t hit the end on sprints or stops.
- Check heel lockdown: no lift when they jog, cut and stop.
- If using orthotics, pick models with removable insoles and enough depth; lace firmly through the midfoot.
- Try the socks they’ll actually play in (thickness matters).
- If you see redness or hot spots, adjust size or lacing; comfort = confidence.
Surface guide for Ireland
- FG (Firm Ground) — Best for good natural grass. Can feel aggressive on hard 3G.
- AG / MG (Artificial / Multi‑Ground) — Safest all‑rounder for mixed weeks across Irish grass and 3G/4G; reduces stud pressure on turf.
- TF (Astro) — Rubber nubs for school cages and community astro; very joint‑friendly.
- IN (Indoor) — Flat, non‑marking sole for sports halls/futsal.
- Always follow coach/league rules—some facilities restrict metal studs and certain plates.
Quick junior boot picks (Ireland)
FAQ
Who won the most recent Women’s World Cup Golden Boot?
Hinata Miyazawa (Japan) won the 2023 Golden Boot with 5 goals.
Can more than one player win the Golden Boot?
Yes. If players remain level after goals, assists, and minutes, the award can be shared—as in 1999 with Sissi and Sun Wen.
How are ties decided?
FIFA applies assists and then fewest minutes played as tiebreakers.
Which player holds the single‑tournament scoring record?
Michelle Akers scored 10 goals at the 1991 Women’s World Cup—still the record.
Is the Golden Boot the same as the Golden Ball?
No. The Golden Boot = top scorer; the Golden Ball = tournament’s best player.
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