Arsenal and Australia defender Steph Catley has been named the Austraffic PFA Women’s Footballer of the Year for the 2024/25 season.
It is the second straight year the Arsenal star has claimed the honour, which is decided by votes cast by members of Professional Footballers Australia(PFA).
The award, backed by Austraffic as part of the PFA Players’ Awards partnership, highlights Catley’s outstanding displays throughout the campaign for both club and country.
A season to remember for Catley
Catley played a key role in helping Arsenal women secure the UEFA Women’s Champions League title for the first time in 18 years.
It was also the second time in the club’s history that they lifted the European crown.
The 31-year-old defender was one of the standout players in Renée Slegers’ side, delivering consistent and composed performances across the season.
Her impressive form at club level also earned her a nomination for the 2025 Ballon d’Orplacing her among the best in the women’s game.
Catley’s leadership and defensive awareness were vital for the Gunners, who enjoyed one of their most successful campaigns in recent years.
Her presence in the backline provided stability, while her ability to push forward added an extra threat in attack.
Recognition from her peers
Catley finished ahead of several top players to claim the award, including Arsenal teammate Caitlin Foord, Lyon defender Ellie Carpenter, and Manchester City forward Mary Fowler.
Melbourne Victory’s Alex Chidiac and Brisbane Roar’s Tameka Yallop were also among the nominees.
This latest win marks the third time Catley has received the honour from her fellow professionals. She first earned the recognition in 2020 before winning it again in 2024 and now 2025.
During the 2024/25 season, Catley featured 32 times in all competitions for Arsenal, maintaining her consistency and leadership throughout.
She also continued to play a central role for the CommBank Matildas, where she remains a dependable and experienced figure in the national setup.
Her latest recognition further underlines her influence and continued excellence, both at club level and on the international stage, cementing her status as one of the most respected defenders in world football.
