Charlyn Corral, the Mexican forward who overcame a childhood illness and now stands as the best scorer in the world, received the Gerd Müller Trophy in London, the award that recognizes the best scorer of the year. At 35 years old, the Pachuca player became the first Mexican to win this award, celebrating not only her 43 goals in 46 games, but also a career marked by resilience and determination.
The origin of Corral's story dates back to when she was just three months old, when a collapsed lung and a ruptured lung led to an emergency tracheostomy. The girl fought for weeks to survive and, years later, emerged as one of the most fearsome forwards in women's football. His career includes spells with Levante and Atlético de Madrid before settling at Pachuca, where he has consolidated his scoring reputation.
The trophy, presented at the Ballon d'Or ceremony, highlights the player's achievements: 43 goals, 11 assists and a scoring rate that places her among the best in the world. Upon receiving the award, Corral expressed his joy and gratitude, saying that the recognition confirms that the work, effort and discipline have been worth it. He also recalled the difficult moments, the criticisms and the moments in which he considered giving up, underlining that the darkness was always present before the light of success.
Corral, who debuted with the Mexican national team at the age of 13, saw London as a reward that allowed him to look back with emotion. “Today is the icing on the cake, it is that praise that I give myself and that tells me that everything was worth it,” she said. He thanked Pachuca, the coaching staff, his teammates and his family, who have been fundamental pillars in his career.
In addition to her sporting career, the player has proven to be a complete professional, having completed a master's degree in International Sports Management at the ESBS–European Sport Business School. This academic achievement complements his career in elite soccer, showing that discipline and passion extend beyond the field.
With this recognition, Charlyn Corral not only celebrates a personal milestone, but also opens a new chapter for Mexican women's soccer. The Pachuca forward will continue competing in the Liga MX Femenil and in the national team, with the certainty that her example will inspire future generations of soccer players who, like her, fight against adversity to achieve greatness.