Sun Wen: A name engraved in FIFA Women’s World Cup’s Hall of Fame

• China finished as runners-up to the US in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup

• Sun Wen finished won both Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards

• Wen was named the FIFA Women’s Player of the Century in 2000 alongside Michelle Akers of USA

Shilarze Saha Roy In the illustrious history of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, certain players possess an undeniable ability to captivate and inspire. Sun Wen, whose name translates to “lovely woman” in Mandarin, stands as a shining example of footballing greatness. With her exceptional skills, Wen carved her name into the fabric of the game, leaving an indelible mark on the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup and beyond. Standing at a modest 5 feet 4 inches, Wen reached great heights as she ignited the tournament with her speed, power, and precise ball distribution. Even as she began the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup nursing a sore ankle, her unyielding spirit propelled her to awe-inspiring performances that would be remembered for generations to come.

Sun Wen’s journey to the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup was paved with remarkable achievements and a hunger for redemption. Having had to settle for the silver medal at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, she returned to the United States with the Chinese national team, aiming to etch their names in women’s football history. Unfortunately, though, she and her team would again falter at the final hurdle as they would lose 5-4 to the US in the penalty shootout after the score was goalless at the end of regulation time. However, Wen proved her calibre throughout the tournament. Her ability to find the back of the net proved crucial to her team’s success. It was evidenced by her remarkable hat-trick against Ghana and clinical brace against Australia in the group stage that propelled China into the knockout stages. Demonstrating a knack for rising to the occasion, Wen delivered another double in the semi-final clash against defending champions Norway, leading China to a resounding 5-0 victory.

In fact, it was in the semi-final match that Sun Wen’s brilliance reached its zenith. With unwavering precision, she whipped in a banana kick — a kick that makes the ball curve or suddenly change direction mid-air — and landed it perfectly at the feet of teammate Fan Yunjie just yards from the net. The resulting goal certainly showcased Wen’s exceptional vision and ability to make her teammates shine. Although China fell agonisingly short in the final, Wen’s star continued to shine brightly. She finished the tournament as the joint top scorer with seven goals and won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards. Beyond her World Cup performances, Wen’s impact extended to the global stage as she was named the FIFA Women’s Player of the Century in 2000 alongside Michelle Akers of the United States. This prestigious recognition highlighted Wen’s enduring legacy and cemented her place among the greatest players the game has ever seen.

Born on April 6, 1973, Wen’s football journey began at a young age, and her dedication and passion propelled her to extraordinary heights. With an impressive record of 106 goals in 152 international matches, she became China’s go-to player when a moment of brilliance was needed. Her ability to manoeuvre with finesse and strike fear into the hearts of defenders showcased her exceptional agility and technical prowess. Off the field, Wen’s vibrant personality was a sight to behold. Expressive and emotive, she wore her heart on her sleeve, whether flopping on her back in dismay, raising a triumphant fist in the air, or flashing a beaming smile of delight. Wen’s contagious energy and commitment to the game endeared her to fans and made her an icon of women’s football.