Soccer-Lehmann most influential women's player on Instagram ahead of World Cup

Soccer Football - Women’s FA Cup - Aston Villa v AFC Fylde - The Banks's Stadium, Walsall, Britain - January 29, 2023 Aston Villa's Alisha Lehmann celebrates scoring their ninth goal Action Images via Reuters/John Clifton/File photo

MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Switzerland's Alisha Lehmann, arguably as well known for her social media presence as her prowess on the pitch, is the top Instagram influencer heading to the Women's World Cup, according to Nielsen Sports, amassing 13.5 million followers to pass American Alex Morgan in the last year.

"The soccer players participating at World Cup 2023 are not only exceptional sportswomen but also social media powerhouses, capable of driving impactful conversations and fostering genuine connections with their followers," Jon Stainer, Nielsen's global managing director, said in a statement.