Temwa Chawinga Makes History as First Two-Time NWSL MVP Winner
In a record-breaking ceremony held in San Jose, California, Temwa Chawinga has been named the National Women's Soccer League's Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the second consecutive season. The 27-year-old forward from Malawi achieved this remarkable feat despite missing several matches due to an adductor injury to her right leg in October.
Chawinga's outstanding performance on the field earned her the top honors, with the Kansas City Current forward leading the league in goals with 15 and three assists over 23 matches. What's more impressive is that six of those 15 goals were game-winners, tying her own record set last year, marking a significant milestone for the player.
The talented striker also tied the league record by scoring in eight straight NWSL regular-season games, a feat that showcased her incredible form throughout the season. Her performance was further recognized when she became the fastest player to reach 25 regular-season goals in May.
Chawinga's impressive display led her team, Kansas City Current, to secure the top spot in the league standings, setting NWSL records with 65 points and 21 wins. The current champion won a second consecutive MVP award for Chawinga, solidifying her position as one of the best players in the league.
Other notable winners from the ceremony included goalkeeper Lorena, who was named Goalkeeper of the Year; Manaka Matsukubo of the North Carolina Courage, who took home the Midfielder of the Year award; Tara McKeown of the Washington Spirit, who won Defender of the Year honors; and Gotham FC's Lilly Reale, who received Rookie of the Year recognition. Bev Yanez, who led Racing Louisville to their first-ever playoff appearance, was named Coach of the Year.
As for Chawinga, she attributed her success to the team that supported her throughout the season. "I'm so grateful for the team β for the team believing in me, trusting in me," she said, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
In a record-breaking ceremony held in San Jose, California, Temwa Chawinga has been named the National Women's Soccer League's Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the second consecutive season. The 27-year-old forward from Malawi achieved this remarkable feat despite missing several matches due to an adductor injury to her right leg in October.
Chawinga's outstanding performance on the field earned her the top honors, with the Kansas City Current forward leading the league in goals with 15 and three assists over 23 matches. What's more impressive is that six of those 15 goals were game-winners, tying her own record set last year, marking a significant milestone for the player.
The talented striker also tied the league record by scoring in eight straight NWSL regular-season games, a feat that showcased her incredible form throughout the season. Her performance was further recognized when she became the fastest player to reach 25 regular-season goals in May.
Chawinga's impressive display led her team, Kansas City Current, to secure the top spot in the league standings, setting NWSL records with 65 points and 21 wins. The current champion won a second consecutive MVP award for Chawinga, solidifying her position as one of the best players in the league.
Other notable winners from the ceremony included goalkeeper Lorena, who was named Goalkeeper of the Year; Manaka Matsukubo of the North Carolina Courage, who took home the Midfielder of the Year award; Tara McKeown of the Washington Spirit, who won Defender of the Year honors; and Gotham FC's Lilly Reale, who received Rookie of the Year recognition. Bev Yanez, who led Racing Louisville to their first-ever playoff appearance, was named Coach of the Year.
As for Chawinga, she attributed her success to the team that supported her throughout the season. "I'm so grateful for the team β for the team believing in me, trusting in me," she said, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration.