Khadija “Bunny” Shaw is widely recognized as one of the most dominant and influential strikers in women’s football. Renowned for her power, finishing, and leadership, she has broken records for both Manchester City and the Jamaica national team, inspiring a new generation of players in the Caribbean and beyond.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 31, 1997, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Khadija Monifa Shaw is the youngest of 13 siblings. Her father, George, was a shoemaker and her mother, Monica, a chicken farmer. Nicknamed “Bunny” by her brother because of her love for carrots, she began playing football with her older brothers and was taught by her brother Kentardo at age 10. By 13, she was called up to Jamaica’s U15 team, marking the start of her international journey.
Shaw faced significant adversity growing up, including the loss of four brothers to violence and accidents. These experiences instilled resilience and a drive to succeed, with football providing both an escape and a platform for change. Her early promise earned her scholarships in the United States, where she attended Eastern Florida State College and then the University of Tennessee, graduating with a degree in communication.
Club Career: From Jamaica to Manchester City
Early Career and Bordeaux
After excelling in college soccer in the United States, Shaw signed with Bordeaux in France’s Division 1 Féminine in 2019. She quickly became the league’s top scorer in the 2020–21 season and was twice named Player of the Month.
Manchester City
Shaw joined Manchester City in June 2021 on a three-year deal. Initially a backup, she soon established herself as the club’s main striker. She scored her first hat-trick for City in an FA Cup win and helped the team win the League Cup in her debut season. The 2022–23 season was a turning point: Shaw became City’s first-choice striker, scored 31 goals in 30 games, broke the club’s single-season scoring record, and was named Player of the Season. She also became Manchester City’s all-time leading goalscorer and secured the WSL Golden Boot with 21 goals in 18 matches for the 2023–24 season. Shaw’s performances have been recognized with the Football Writers’ Association Women’s Footballer of the Year, PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year, and multiple WSL Player of the Month awards. She signed a contract extension through 2026.
International Career: Jamaica’s Captain and All-Time Top Scorer
Shaw made her senior debut for Jamaica in 2015, scoring twice in her first match. She has since become Jamaica’s all-time leading scorer—across both men’s and women’s teams—with 57 goals in 44 appearances. Shaw led Jamaica to their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019 and captained the Reggae Girlz to their first knockout stage appearance at the 2023 World Cup, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer for Caribbean football.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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Manchester City all-time top scorer
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Jamaica’s all-time top scorer (men’s and women’s teams)
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WSL Golden Boot winner (2023–24)
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Record for most hat-tricks in WSL history
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League Cup winner with Manchester City
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Football Writers’ Association Women’s Footballer of the Year
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PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year
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CONCACAF Female Player of the Year (2022)
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Ballon d’Or nominee
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Led Jamaica to their first Women’s World Cup and first knockout stage appearance
Shaw is celebrated for her strength, clinical finishing, and inspirational leadership on and off the pitch.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As one of the top strikers in the Women’s Super League, Shaw earns a leading salary at Manchester City, with additional income from endorsements and commercial partnerships. Her profile as a Jamaican and Caribbean trailblazer makes her a sought-after figure for global brands.
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Estimated Salary: Among the highest at Manchester City Women
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Endorsements: Partnerships with sports brands and Jamaican companies
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Future Prospects: Continued commercial growth as her legacy expands
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Khadija Shaw is known for her humility, resilience, and commitment to inspiring young girls, especially in Jamaica. She values authenticity and community, and her journey from Spanish Town to the world stage is a testament to perseverance and belief.
FAQs About Khadija Shaw
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What position does Khadija Shaw play?
She is a striker, known for her strength, finishing, and leadership. -
Which clubs has Khadija Shaw played for?
Bordeaux and Manchester City. -
What are Khadija Shaw’s top achievements?
Manchester City and Jamaica’s all-time top scorer, WSL Golden Boot winner, multiple individual awards, and leading Jamaica to World Cup history. -
How many goals has Khadija Shaw scored for Jamaica?
57 goals in 44 senior appearances. -
How long is Khadija Shaw’s contract with Manchester City?
She is contracted through 2026.
Conclusion
Khadija Shaw’s rise from Spanish Town, Jamaica, to becoming one of the world’s most feared strikers is a story of talent, determination, and breaking barriers. As she continues to set records and inspire the next generation, “Bunny” Shaw stands as a true icon of women’s football.
