Kerr, who won the 2019 NWSL Most Valuable Player, Golden Boot and scored five World Cup goals for the Matildas in their run to the Round of 16, was an outside favourite for the awards.

Rapinoe, who is widely considered to be the world's best female player, alongside US teammate Alex Morgan and England star Lucy Bronze, was an expected favourite after playing a key role in the World Cup trophy.

Kumagai, meanwhile, has played an exceptional role for French champions and UEFA Champions League dominants Lyon. Like Kerr, she also led Japan to the World Cup Round of 16 as captain.

Kerr reportedly finished seventh in the final rankings.

Japan completed a clean sweep of the AFC Women's awards, picking up Best Young Player and Best Futsal Player as well, while their women's national team coach Asako Takahura beat Joe Montemurro to the AFC Coach of the Year award.

“It is a great honour to receive this award. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who supported me, especially my teammates in the national team and Olympique Lyonnais," said Kumagai.

"They’ve helped me grow up as a footballer and their support has led me to this stage. This award will continue to motivate me to perform to the best of my abilities."

Rapinoe wasn't at the FIFA awards ceremony, which she called a "bummer", but insisted that she'll try to make next years.

"It's a bummer [not to be there]," she said.

"I congratulate all the nominees. I can't believe I'm the one winning it.

"I want to thank my team-mates, my coaches, my federation, to allow me to be the person who I am on the field and off the field.

"Thank you to my beautiful girlfriend Sue. I'm so sorry I can't be there, I know it's going to be insane but I'll do my best to get there next year."