Arsenal’s Williamson ‘taken aback but very appreciative’ of accolade

The England captain, who was the only Arsenal player named in the England squad for the upcoming Finalissima against Brazil at Wembley next Thursday, said she was ‘slightly taken aback by it but very appreciative’.

Williamson has been named the most influential woman in sport as BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour selected sport as its focus for this year’s rankings, asking listeners to make suggestions across several categories.

A judging panel including Paralympic and Olympic gold medalists Tanni Grey-Thompson and Sam Quek then chose a top 30 with Williamson heading the list.

It came about after Williamson captained the Lionesses to Euro 2022 glory last summer as they capped off a stunning tournament beating Germany 2-1 at Wembley Stadium with a Chloe Kelly extra-time strike.

Following on from that Euro win, Williamson played a key role with Arsenal and England team-mate Lotte Wubben-Moy to get the UK government to provide equal access to sport in school for girls.

Williamson told the BBC: “I always say if a girl chooses not to play football then it’s good because she’s had a choice in the first place – I’ll take that any day instead of somebody choosing for her.

“As women we’ve been living in the shadows, maybe, but we know that we have the ability to step up. 

“If you can’t see it, you can’t be it, which is why when we do recognise women like this, it’s great because those aspiring to be in these positions can believe there is a place for them in the sporting world.”

The Woman’s Hour Power List was first launched in 2013 and has celebrated the achievements of British women in different spheres of public life. 

Karen Dalziel, editor of BBC Woman’s Hour, added: “The Women in Sport Power List recognises 30 incredible women whose passion, dedication and expertise is transforming the profile and experience of women’s sport.

“We are proud to celebrate the unique qualities and achievements of each of these amazing women as they inspire others and bring about lasting change.”

Wubben-Moy was also recognised for her work in helping to lead this campaign and striving to secure a legacy for women’s football.