London, United Kingdom (IN) — In a momentous announcement that sent ripples of pride through the Arsenal Women Football Club community and the wider footballing world, legendary defender Leah Williamson has been officially recognised for her outstanding contributions to football and society, as she was named among the honourees in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
The 28-year-old, who has long been celebrated for her composure on the field and her leadership off it, was awarded the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), marking a significant personal milestone in a career that continues to inspire a generation.
Speaking after the announcement, Williamson expressed both humility and gratitude: “It’s a huge honour to be recognised in this way. Football has always been my passion, and to be acknowledged not just for playing, but for contributing to the game and the community beyond it, means everything.”
Williamson rose to international prominence after captaining the England Women’s National Team to victory at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, ending decades of heartbreak for English football. That historic win was not only a sporting triumph but also a cultural turning point for women’s football in the UK, and Williamson’s calm and unifying leadership became a defining image of that summer.
Since then, she has become a vocal advocate for equality, youth engagement, and mental health in sport, using her platform to push for long-term structural change across football. Whether it’s mentoring young players at Arsenal, speaking out on gender parity in sport, or visiting schools to encourage young girls to dream big, Williamson’s impact has gone far beyond the pitch.
Tributes poured in from across the footballing world, with Arsenal Women manager Jonas Eidevall calling her “a leader who sets the standard for what it means to represent club and country,” and former Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman adding, “Leah is not just an incredible footballer — she’s a role model in every sense.”
This personal milestone is just the latest chapter in what has already been a remarkable career. For Williamson, the honour reflects not only her sporting achievements, but her deep and lasting influence on the future of the women’s game.
“Football has given me so much,” Williamson said. “If I’ve been able to give something back — to the sport, to young people, or to the community — then that’s the most meaningful thing of all.”