Who is Naomi Girma?
Naomi Haile Girma is an American professional soccer player who plays as a center back for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, San Diego Wave FC, and the United States national team. She was born on June 14, 2000, in San Jose, California, and is known for her exceptional defensive skills, leadership on the field, and her remarkable achievements at a young age.
Early Life and Education
Naomi Girma was born in San Jose, California, to Ethiopian immigrant parents. Growing up, she was influenced by her brother, Nathaniel, and her parents’ strong work ethic, which fueled her passion for soccer. As a child, she also participated in gymnastics, but she quickly transitioned to soccer and joined local youth teams. Naomi’s soccer talents were apparent early on, and her commitment to excellence led her to play for the prestigious Central Valley Crossfire.
Girma continued her education at Stanford University, where she excelled both academically and athletically. At Stanford, she played for the Cardinal’s women’s soccer team and soon became one of the top college players in the country. As team captain, she led them to victory in the 2019 Women’s College Cup, showcasing her leadership abilities and dedication to the sport.
Personal Life
Naomi Girma is known for being private about her personal life. While much of her attention is focused on soccer, she is also an advocate for her Ethiopian heritage and maintains close ties with her family. Naomi values her independence and discipline, as demonstrated by her rigorous approach to both her athletic career and personal development. Her social media presence reflects her professional pursuits, often highlighting her soccer achievements and community involvement.
Family
Naomi comes from a close-knit family. Her parents, Girma Aweke and Seble Demissie, immigrated to the United States from Ethiopia. The values instilled by her family—hard work, perseverance, and dedication—have been instrumental in shaping Naomi’s character and career.
She also has an older brother, Nathaniel, who has been a major influence in her life and her early involvement in sports. Her family has always supported her in her soccer journey, with her parents attending her games and helping her stay grounded.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Naomi Haile Girma |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 2000 |
| Place of Birth | San Jose, California, U.S. |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Position | Center back |
| Current Team | San Diego Wave FC |
| Number | 4 |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $1 million USD |
| Parents | Girma Aweke, Seble Demissie |
Career
Naomi Girma’s career trajectory in soccer has been nothing short of remarkable. After impressing coaches at the youth level, she moved on to Stanford University, where she played for four years. During her time with the Stanford Cardinal, she established herself as a dominant force in defense. Girma’s leadership qualities and consistency on the field earned her multiple accolades, including being named the Pac-12 Defender of the Year and a First Team All-American.
In 2022, Girma was selected first overall in the NWSL Draft by San Diego Wave FC, marking the beginning of her professional career. She made an immediate impact in the league, earning NWSL Rookie of the Year honors. Her skills as a center-back, combined with her composure and intelligence, made her one of the league’s most promising defenders. Her contributions to San Diego Wave FC were instrumental in the team’s success, and Girma quickly became a key player.
Girma’s success on the club level led to her call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team. She debuted for the national team in 2022 and quickly solidified her place as one of the top defenders in the world. Her remarkable performance in international tournaments, including the 2024 Paris Olympics, helped the United States win gold, solidifying her reputation as one of the best in the sport.
Throughout her career, Girma has received multiple awards for her defensive prowess, including the NWSL Defender of the Year award in both 2022 and 2023. Her rise in the sport has been a testament to her hard work, discipline, and skill.
Looking ahead, Naomi Girma’s career is full of promise. With her remarkable performances both domestically and internationally, she is poised to continue making her mark in the world of soccer for years to come.
Naomi Girma’s Career Overview
| Year | Club | Position | Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018–2021 | Stanford Cardinal | Center-back | 2019 NCAA Champion, First-Team All-American, Pac-12 Defender of the Year |
| 2022–Present | San Diego Wave FC | Center-back | NWSL Rookie of the Year, NWSL Defender of the Year |
| 2022–Present | United States National Team | Center-back | Debut in 2022, part of the team in the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal win |
Latest News
Naomi Girma recently made headlines as one of the key players in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she played every minute of the tournament and helped the United States women’s soccer team win the gold medal. Her performance has been widely praised, and she was named U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year in 2023. This has solidified her reputation as one of the best defenders in the world.
Height and Physical Appearance
Naomi Girma stands at a height of 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m), a great stature for a center-back player. Her athletic build, coupled with her agility and speed, allows her to excel in her position. Girma’s physical presence on the field is both commanding and graceful, making her a force to be reckoned with in any match.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| @naomigirma | |
| @naomigirma |
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Naomi Girma’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. Her career earnings are boosted by her success in both the NWSL and international tournaments. With numerous sponsorships, including partnerships with athletic brands and her rising star in women’s soccer, her net worth is expected to grow in the coming years.
FAQS
- What ethnicity is Girma?
Naomi Girma is of Ethiopian descent, as both of her parents are from Ethiopia. - Does Naomi Girma speak Amharic?
Yes, Naomi Girma speaks Amharic, which is one of the official languages of Ethiopia. - How do you pronounce Naomi Girma?
Her name is pronounced as “NAY-oh-mee GEER-muh.” - What cleats does Naomi Girma wear?
Naomi Girma is known to wear Nike cleats, specifically the Nike Tiempo line, which are known for their comfort and support on the field.
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