Who is Naomi Girma?
Early Life and Education
Personal Life
Family
Naomi’s family has played a significant role in her success, providing unwavering support throughout her journey. Her parents, Girma Aweke and Seble Demissie, are immigrants from Ethiopia who settled in the Bay Area. Her father’s love for soccer was instrumental in sparking Naomi’s interest in the sport. Her mother, Seble, is known for her encouragement and dedication, always prioritizing Naomi’s education and personal development.
Naomi shares a special bond with her older brother, Nathaniel Girma, who also played soccer during his youth. He served as a role model for Naomi, demonstrating the value of teamwork and commitment. The Girma family’s strong connection to their Ethiopian roots is evident in their emphasis on cultural traditions and values, which Naomi carries with her both on and off the field.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Naomi Haile Girma |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 2000 |
| Place of Birth | San Jose, California, USA |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Parents | Girma Aweke and Seble Demissie |
| Siblings | Brother: Nathaniel Girma |
| Position | Center Back |
| Current Club | Chelsea FC |
| Previous Club | San Diego Wave |
| National Team | United States |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $2 million |
Career
Early Career
Naomi’s soccer journey began with local clubs in California, where her talent was quickly noticed by coaches and scouts. She stood out not only for her physical abilities but also for her strategic understanding of the game. Her participation in youth programs, such as those organized by Central Valley Crossfire and De Anza Force, laid the foundation for her future success.
Naomi also represented the United States at various youth levels, including the U17, U19, and U20 national teams. Her consistent performances in these teams highlighted her potential as a future star of U.S. soccer.
College Career at Stanford
During her time at Stanford University, Naomi solidified her reputation as one of the best young defenders in the country. Her leadership skills became apparent when she captained the team during the 2019 season, leading Stanford to a national championship victory. In addition to her on-field success, Naomi was recognized for her academic achievements, proving that she excelled both as a student and an athlete.
Her collegiate career earned her numerous accolades, including selections to All-American teams and defensive player awards. By the time she graduated, Naomi was widely regarded as a top prospect for professional soccer.
Professional Career
San Diego Wave (2022–2024)
In the 2022 NWSL Draft, Naomi Girma was selected as the first overall pick by the San Diego Wave. Her debut season was nothing short of spectacular, as she was named both the NWSL Rookie of the Year and the NWSL Defender of the Year, a rare accomplishment.
In 2023, she continued to shine, helping the Wave secure the NWSL Shield while once again earning the Defender of the Year title. Her ability to consistently deliver outstanding performances established her as a cornerstone of the team’s defense.
Chelsea FC (2025–Present)
In January 2025, Naomi made headlines by transferring to Chelsea FC in the Women’s Super League for a record-breaking fee of $1.1 million (£810,000). This move made her the first female player to surpass the $1 million mark, reflecting her immense value in the world of women’s soccer.
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes described her as the best defender she has ever worked with, underscoring Naomi’s exceptional talent. Naomi’s transition to Chelsea is expected to elevate her career to new heights as she competes at the highest level of European football.
International Career
Naomi made her senior debut for the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) on April 12, 2022, in a match against Uzbekistan. Her consistent performances earned her a spot in the team for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she played a crucial role in securing a gold medal for the U.S. team.
Playing Style
Standing at 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters), Girma is known for her disciplined defending, exceptional positioning, and ability to read the game. Her proficiency in dribbling and accurate passing allows her to initiate attacks from the back, making her a versatile and invaluable asset to her teams.
Here’s a detailed table summarizing Naomi Girma’s career:
| Year | Team/Organization | League/Competition | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018–2021 | Stanford Cardinal | NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer | Captained the team to the 2019 NCAA Championship; earned multiple All-American honors. |
| 2022–2024 | San Diego Wave | National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) | Named NWSL Rookie of the Year (2022); NWSL Defender of the Year (2022 & 2023); won the NWSL Shield (2023). |
| 2022 | U.S. Women’s National Team | International Friendlies | Made senior debut against Uzbekistan on April 12, 2022. |
| 2023 | U.S. Women’s National Team | FIFA Women’s World Cup | Represented the U.S. in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. |
| 2024 | U.S. Women’s National Team | Paris Olympics | Won Olympic Gold Medal with the U.S. Women’s National Team. |
| 2025–Present | Chelsea FC | Women’s Super League (WSL) | Transferred for a record-breaking $1.1 million, becoming the first female soccer player to cross the $1M mark. |
This table highlights Naomi Girma’s key career milestones, achievements, and transitions. Let me know if you’d like additional details!
Naomi Girma’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and dedication. From her early days in San Jose to becoming a record-breaking professional, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to excel in every aspect of her life. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, highlighting the importance of hard work, family support, and a strong sense of purpose.
With her move to Chelsea FC, Naomi continues to break barriers and set new standards in women’s soccer. Her career is a testament to her skills, leadership, and unyielding determination to succeed. As she embarks on this new chapter, the world eagerly watches to see what Naomi Girma will achieve next.
Physical Appearance
| Platform | Handle/Link |
|---|---|
| @naomi_girma | |
| @naomi_girma |
Latest News
On January 26, 2025, Chelsea FC announced the signing of Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave FC for a record-breaking fee of $1.1 million (£890,000), making her the first female soccer player to surpass the $1 million mark. Girma, a 24-year-old center back, has been recognized as one of the world’s top defenders, earning NWSL Defender of the Year honors in two of her three professional seasons. She joins Chelsea on a four-and-a-half-year contract and was unveiled to fans before their match against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. Girma expressed her excitement about joining Chelsea, citing the club’s culture, winning mentality, and the quality of the staff and players as key factors in her decision.
Naomi Girma’s journey to becoming a soccer sensation mirrors the determination and resilience seen in other prominent figures. For example, you can explore the inspiring story of Cynthia Erivo, who has excelled in acting and music, showcasing unmatched versatility. Similarly, for insights into influential personalities in different fields, check out the biography of Dan Snyder, a renowned figure in sports and business.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Naomi Girma’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. This valuation considers her professional contracts, endorsements, and her record-breaking transfer to Chelsea FC. Her financial growth mirrors her rising prominence in the world of women’s soccer.
Naomi Girma’s journey from a young soccer enthusiast in California to a trailblazer in women’s football exemplifies her talent, determination, and the support of her family and community. Her story continues to inspire many in the sports world and beyon
FAQS
- Is Naomi Girma Indian?
No, Naomi Girma is not Indian. She is of Ethiopian descent and was born in San Jose, California, USA. - What cleats does Naomi Girma wear?
Naomi Girma wears Nike cleats, often customized to suit her playing style and preferences on the field. - How do you say Naomi Girma?
Naomi Girma is pronounced as Nay-oh-mee Geer-mah.
