Top 5 playmakers Women’s WC 2025: “Brains, bravery, and brilliance”

The playmakers who see everything – and make it all happen. From Reistad’s unstoppable presence to de Paula’s flair, these five are the tournament’s creative engines.

Henny Reistad (Norway)

Henny Reistad.
Photo: Jesper Zerman / BILDBYRÅN

The world’s best handball player. Injuries or not, Reistad delivers when it counts – unstoppable power, perfect timing, and unmatched shooting ability. The complete package.

Bruna de Paula (Brazil)

Bruna de Paula. Photo (archive): Christoffer Borg Mattisson / BILDBYRÅN.

The best non-European player on the planet. A revelation for Győri this season, de Paula’s speed, vision, and intensity make her Brazil’s biggest hope – and maybe the most vital player in the entire championship.

Helena Elver (Denmark)

Helena Elver of Denmark.
Photo: Jon Olav Nesvold / BILDBYRÅN

Taking over the Danish playmaker role from Mie Højlund isn’t easy – but Elver’s doing it with style. Intelligent, quick-thinking, and technically superb, she’s proving she belongs at the top.

Petra Vámos (Hungary)

Petra Vamos of Hungary.
Photo: Michael Erichsen / BILDBYRÅN

Pure energy. Vámos was sensational at last year’s Euros, driving Hungary’s resurgence. Strong, fearless, and lethal in transition – she’s key to Hungary’s medal hopes.

Lena Grandveau (France)

Léna Grandveau of France.
Photo: Petter Arvidson / BILDBYRÅN

Creative, daring, and already a star at 22. Grandveau might play more on the right for the national team, but her vision and breakthrough ability will light up France’s attack.