Age: 24 Position: Defender Teams: San Diego Wave and United States
Defenders can often fly under the radar, but that’s not the case for Naomi Girma.
Described as “the best defender I have ever seen” by United States head coach Emma Hayes, Girma has impressed for both club and country.
The 24-year-old, whose parents were both born in Ethiopia, made history in January when she became the first defender in history to win the US women’s player of the year award.
She played every minute in her nation’s run to Olympic gold and the centre-back, known for her composure on the ball and leadership qualities, was widely considered on of the USA’s most pivotal players during the tournament.
The United States’ triumph in Paris wrapped up a remarkable treble in 2024 after their success in the Concacaf Gold Cup and the She Believes Cup earlier in the year.
There was similar success for Girma at club level as she marshalled the backline for San Diego Wave as they collected the NWSL shield and Challenge Cup.
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