England and Arsenal winger Chloe Kelly finds herself in the spotlight once again, named among the six top contenders for the prestigious 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. This recognition follows a phenomenal year where she cemented her status as a national sporting icon through club and country success.
A Year of Unforgettable Triumphs
The cornerstone of Kelly's remarkable 2025 was her pivotal role in the England Lionesses' UEFA Women's Euro 2025 victory. In a tense final against Spain that went to penalties, it was Kelly who held her nerve to score the decisive winning spot-kick, securing the European title for her nation. This moment of cool-headed brilliance echoed her legendary extra-time winner against Germany in the 2022 final, a goal celebrated by her iconic shirt-off moment that became a global symbol of women's sport.
Her success was not confined to the international stage. Kelly was instrumental in Arsenal's triumphant 2025 UEFA Women's Champions League campaign, with her transfer to the North London club earlier that year standing as one of the most significant moves in Women's Super League history. Her exceptional performances throughout the year were further validated by a fifth-place finish in the voting for the coveted 2025 Women's Ballon d'Or.
Overcoming Adversity and Building a Brand
This incredible season carried added weight as it marked a powerful comeback from a devastating ACL injury, showcasing Kelly's immense resilience and dedication. On the pitch, she is renowned for her explosive pace and powerful, accurate shooting from her primary position on the wing.
Off the pitch, Kelly has become one of the most commercially successful athletes in the country. Her marketability is underscored by major endorsement deals with global brands like Nike, Calvin Klein, and Land Rover. A reported £1.5 million partnership with Land Rover is a key contributor to her estimated net worth of around £5 million, making her one of the wealthiest figures in women's football.
Personal Life and Career Journey
In her personal life, 2025 was also a year of celebration as she married her long-term partner, Scott Moore, in August. Her professional journey began with Everton before a move to Manchester City, ultimately leading to her headline-grabbing switch to Arsenal.
As the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony approaches, Chloe Kelly stands as a formidable contender. Her story is one of breathtaking sporting achievement, remarkable commercial success, and a triumphant return from a career-threatening setback, embodying the spirit the award seeks to honour.
