Naomi Girma is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in women’s football, celebrated for her composure, intelligence, and leadership. After breaking records in the NWSL and starring for the USWNT, Girma made history with her transfer to Chelsea, becoming the world’s most expensive female player. Her rapid rise, both domestically and internationally, marks her as a defining talent of her generation
Early Life and Background
Naomi Girma was born on June 14, 2000, in San Jose, California, to Ethiopian parents. She grew up bilingual (Amharic and English) and began her football journey with Maleda Soccer Club before excelling at Stanford University, where she captained the team and won a national title.
Club Career
San Diego Wave FC
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Selected first overall in the 2022 NWSL Draft.
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Made an immediate impact, winning both NWSL Rookie of the Year and Defender of the Year in her debut season-the first player in league history to do so.
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Repeated as NWSL Defender of the Year in 2023 and 2024.
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Helped San Diego win the NWSL Shield and became a key figure in building play from the back.
Chelsea FC
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In January 2025, became the first player in women’s football to command a transfer fee over €1 million, joining Chelsea in a record-breaking move.
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Quickly established herself as a leader in Chelsea’s defense, praised for her tactical intelligence, passing range, and ability to play with both feet.
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Her move was seen as a statement for both Chelsea and the growth of the women’s game.
International Career
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First called up to the USWNT senior squad in 2019, but debuted in April 2022 after overcoming injury setbacks.
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Starred at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and was named U.S. Soccer’s Female Player of the Year-the first defender to win the award.
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Played every minute as the US won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, anchoring a defense that conceded just 0.17 goals per game.
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Scored her first two international goals in a friendly against Argentina in October 2024.
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As of early 2025, has become a mainstay and is widely tipped as a future USWNT captain.
Achievements and Honors
Club Honors
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NWSL Rookie of the Year: 2022
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NWSL Defender of the Year: 2022, 2023, 2024
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NWSL Shield: 2023 (San Diego Wave)
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Record transfer to Chelsea FC (2025)
International Honors
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Olympic Gold Medal: 2024 (Paris, USA)
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U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year: 2023
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CONCACAF W Championship runner-up: 2022
Playing Style and Strengths
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Exceptionally calm and composed under pressure.
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Elite passer-comfortable playing both short and long balls with either foot.
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Reads the game superbly, always well-positioned and quick to anticipate danger.
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Physically strong, dominant in aerial duels and tackles.
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Natural leader and communicator, organizing the backline and inspiring teammates.
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Versatile: can play as a center-back in both back-three and back-four systems.
Career Stats (as of May 2025)
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Date of Birth: June 14, 2000
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Age: 24
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Height: 5’6″ (1.68 m)
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Position: Centre-back
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Current Club: Chelsea FC Women
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Previous Club: San Diego Wave FC
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USWNT Caps: 45+
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USWNT Goals: 2
Frequently Asked Questions About Naomi Girma
How old is Naomi Girma?
She is 24 years old, born on June 14, 2000.
What position does Naomi Girma play?
She plays as a centre-back for Chelsea and the United States national team.
What are Naomi Girma’s major achievements?
She is a two-time NWSL Defender of the Year, Olympic gold medalist, and the first defender to win U.S. Soccer’s Female Player of the Year.
Why was Naomi Girma’s transfer to Chelsea historic?
She became the world’s most expensive female player, with a transfer fee exceeding €1 million.
What makes Naomi Girma stand out?
Her composure, passing, defensive intelligence, leadership, and ability to excel under pressure.
Conclusion
Naomi Girma’s journey from San Jose to Chelsea and Olympic gold is a testament to her talent, resilience, and influence on and off the pitch. As a record-breaking defender and emerging leader, she is set to shape the future of women’s football for years to come.
