In a year that has become a defining chapter in her already illustrious career, Chicago Red Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was honored with the prestigious title of U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year for 2024. This accolade not only highlights her remarkable performance throughout the year but also celebrates her resilience and dedication to the sport during her final chapter as an international player. Winning this award, Naeher received 40.8% of the weighted vote—a significant achievement over last year’s victor, Naomi Girma, who garnered 32.2%. The voting process showcased a diverse array of opinions, incorporating feedback from national team coaches, players, board members, and even fans, whose votes contributed 15% to the outcome.
This recognition as Player of the Year serves as a crowning jewel for Naeher, representing not just her individual talent, but the spirit of teamwork and commitment that characterized the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) throughout their challenging journeys in major tournaments.
Among the many accolades she received this year, the acknowledgment as The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year and her selection for The Best FIFA Best Women’s 11 further underline her extraordinary contributions to the sport. At just 36 years old, Naeher has already made history as only the second goalkeeper in the 39-year history of the U.S. Soccer award to earn this honor, following in the footsteps of the legendary Hope Solo, who won it in 2009. Given the depth and quality of talent in women’s soccer, Naeher’s achievements position her among an elite cohort of players, further solidifying her impact on the game.
A crucial component of the USWNT’s gold medal triumph at the Olympics, Naeher played a central role in a defense that yielded just two goals during the tournament. Notably, she delivered a remarkable performance that included a pivotal kick-save in the overtime semifinal against Germany—an instance that demonstrated her clutch capabilities under pressure. In fact, her record of clean sheets in both World Cup and Olympic finals speaks volumes about her skill set; she became the first goalkeeper in women’s soccer to achieve this remarkable feat. Such moments of brilliance not only elevated her own game but also galvanized the entire team, fostering a sense of unity and purpose.
At the conclusion of 2024, Naeher’s stats were impressive, with 18 starts, a true testament to her stamina and reliability. She recorded a total of 1,170 minutes on the pitch, a record of 13 wins, 1 loss, and 3 draws, balanced by a remarkable goals-against average of 0.50. The accolades came not just from her technical proficiency but also from her uncanny ability to inspire those around her, as she noted in her acceptance speech, emphasizing the energy and commitment of her teammates as vital to their success.
While the recognition and accomplishments in 2024 symbolize the pinnacle of Naeher’s international career, they also come at a bittersweet moment as she announced her retirement from international play last November. Ending her illustrious career with 115 caps and a commendable record of 89 wins, 15 losses, and 6 draws, Naeher leaves behind a legacy that will likely inspire the next generation of goalkeepers and players alike.
Despite stepping back from the international stage, Naeher is not done competing. She will continue to showcase her talents with the Chicago Red Stars in the upcoming National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season. By committing to her club career, she ensures her contributions to women’s soccer remain impactful, and her dedication to the sport continues undeterred.
Alyssa Naeher’s journey through 2024 has been a tapestry of personal achievements and collective triumphs. As she transitions into the next chapter of her career while reflecting on her legacy, the lessons learned and the inspiration garnered will resonate within the hearts of aspiring players. Naeher’s story exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated athlete—one who demonstrates both extraordinary skill and profound humility, leaving an indelible mark on the world of women’s soccer.
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