Is Homare Sawa A-List?
No — Homare Sawa is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2011
World Cup Victory, Golden Ball
Lost A-list status in 2015
Dropped to B tier — Retires from Football
Ranking Timeline
Joins Nippon TV Beleza
Sawa begins her professional career in Japan.
Moves to Atlanta Beat (WUSA)
Playing in the WUSA increases her international exposure.
Returns to Nippon TV Beleza
Returning to Japan after the WUSA folded.
World Cup Victory, Golden Ball
Captaining Japan to World Cup victory and winning individual awards elevates her to legendary status.
Olympic Silver Medal
Leading Japan to an Olympic silver medal further solidifies her legacy.
Retires from Football
Sawa retires from professional football as a legend.
Advocate and Role Model
Sawa remains involved in promoting women's football and is widely respected as a role model.
Last updated: February 25, 2026