Alyssa Naeher named 2024 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year

Alyssa Naeher has been awarded the 2024 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year, marking a historic achievement as only the second goalkeeper in 40 years to win the prestigious honor.

Naeher played a crucial role in the U.S. Women's National Team's triumphant campaign at the 2024 Paris Olympics, helping secure their fifth gold medal. The 36-year-old goalkeeper played every minute of the tournament, conceding just two goals. With a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final, Naeher made history as the first goalkeeper in women's soccer to record clean sheets in both a World Cup Final and an Olympic Final.

"This is an incredible honour, to cap off what has been a very special year with this team," said Naeher, who was also named the Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper of the Year. "This team is made up of a special group of players, coaches and staff, and all year you could feel that energy and that we had the opportunity to achieve something great."

While Naeher's recognition is a career highlight, it also comes during a bittersweet time, as she announced her retirement from international soccer in November. She plans to continue playing for NWSL side Chicago Stars in the 2025 season.

The 2024 honor was determined through a vote by fans, coaches, players, the U.S. Soccer Board of Directors, and select media members. Naeher joins Hope Solo, who won the award in 2009, as the only goalkeepers to receive the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year award.

SportsLigue