BAD BUNNY!

REGGAE Girlz superstar Khadija “Bunny” Shaw has spent her career defying expectations, and she reached another incredible milestone by being recognised as the third-best player in women’s football globally. On Monday, Shaw finished in the top three of the Women’s Ballon d’Or Rankings, as announced at the awards ceremony in London, England. The Jamaican, who was tipped as one of the favourites, ended behind winner Alexia Putellas of Spain who was recognised for her quadruple-winning season with FC Barcelona last season. Shaw is the only Jamaican to have ever been nominated for the Ballon d’Or, male or female, and she created further history by becoming just the fourth player from outside Europe to finish in the top three.

She is also only the third North American player to achieve the feat, joining USA’s Megan Rapinoe, who won the award in 2019, and Alex Morgan, who finished third that same year. Shaw had a remarkable season in England, guiding Manchester City to the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the FA Cup, ending their four-year title drought. She finished with 21 goals to win the WSL Golden Boot for a third-straight season and was named WSL Player of the Season, Professional Footballers Association (PFA) Player of the Year, and Football Writers Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year. Shaw improved on her ranking after finishing 24th in the 2023 race and 15th in 2024. Despite not winning the overall award, the Reggae Girlz captain says she’s overwhelmed by the achievement. “To be named as the third-best player by those who voted is a huge honour for me, and I’m extremely grateful for the recognition,” Shaw said. “[Manchester] City are a special club, and for them to trust me with leading our front-line week in, week out, is something I take immense pride in. “I…