For all their evolution on the pitch, it is the mentality shift off it that has perhaps had the biggest impact.
“What has changed [since the World Cup] is how the players see themselves and how the world sees them,” Xavi said.
“It is the shift from being the underdogs to world champions that has brought pride and boosted their mentality.
“It’s also about resilience, demonstrating to the world that these players did not shine for just a moment, but continued to be the faces of the sport and those who will push it to new heights.”
The difference was evident in the semi-final victory over Germany, a side they had never previously beaten.
Resilience and composure was the running theme of that 1-0 victory, with the squad’s creativity shining through in the end.
England will provide a big test in the final, a side who have equally shown their own mental fortitude as the tournament has progressed.
No matter what happens, though, it has proved to be yet another excellent display of the sport for the thousands of fans who travelled to Switzerland.
“It’s important to not only recognise these achievements, but to remember what is behind these records,” Xavi exclaimed.
“It’s proof that investment in women’s football pays off, proof that the talent and quality exist, proof that audiences will tune in to matches and travel across the world.
“These record-breaking numbers don’t surprise me—they confirm what I, and many others, have known for years: the world isn’t just watching women’s football. It’s all in.”