Emma Hayes voiced her anger over the “ridiculous” remarks aimed at Barbra Banda following her selection as BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.

The forward for Orlando Pride and the Zambian national team has endured a wave of negative comments and online abuse since being honored with the prestigious accolade.

Banda's BBC Women's Footballer of the Year award win followed her ranking as the NWSL's second highest scorer this season

3

Banda’s honor as BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year follows her impressive performance that saw her finish as the NWSL’s second highest scorer this season.Credit: AP
The Zambia forward's goals propelled Orlando Pride to their first NWSL Championship

3

Banda’s contributions were vital in securing Orlando Pride their inaugural NWSL Championship.Credit: Getty

Banda, who captains her national squad, played a significant role in Orlando’s first National Women’s Soccer League title this year.

However, the BBC’s choice to recognize her as Women’s Footballer of the Year has resulted in considerable backlash on social media.

This criticism originated from her absence in two matches during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where it was suggested that she failed a gender eligibility test, including the tournament in Morocco two years ago that South Africa won.

Read More Football Stories

Nevertheless, her agent Anton Maksimov and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) clarified that she did not undergo any such test and that her withdrawals were due to the Football Association of Zambia.

Public figures, such as author JK Rowling and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, have voiced their displeasure regarding Banda’s recognition from the BBC.

In contrast, numerous prominent organizations and figures in women’s football have united in her support, including Hayes, two-time World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe, and the NWSL Players’ Association.

Hayes stated, “It’s ludicrous that she has to endure this scrutiny, and she has our support. She has achieved amazing feats, both for her club and her nation, and has had an exceptional season.”

“We should concentrate on her achievements and the impact she’s made in the NWSL, particularly evident during the Olympics when she represented Zambia.”

“Honestly, I’m truly saddened by the level of negativity directed at her.”

Banda, who earned her senior international debut in 2016, has accumulated 63 caps for her national team and participated in three matches at last year’s Women’s World Cup after FIFA confirmed her eligibility.

This season, she netted 13 goals in 22 NWSL games, playing a crucial role in Orlando’s division title triumph.

Banda captained the Zambia team that competed in last year's Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand

3

Banda captained the Zambia team that participated in last year’s Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.Credit: Getty

Hayes added, “I have immense respect for her because, in women’s football, we often spotlight players from more traditional football nations. It’s remarkable to see such excellence emerging from Africa, and her considerable influence deserves recognition.”

“I’m aware my assistant coach (Lisa Cole) worked with her in Zambia and spoke very highly of her as a fantastic person. She has our steadfast support.”