USWNT legends and rising stars dominate 2024 award list in stunning fashion | OneFootball

Rewarding outstanding performances is not only an individual issue but also part of a strategy to create an interesting narrative around soccer in the United States, especially for the women's game. With names such as Alyssa Naeher, Naomi Girma, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, nominees for US Soccer Female Player of the Year show the steady growth that women's soccer has had within the country. Each of these players played a pivotal role in the USWNT's gold medal run at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking their return to the podium after a 12-year drought.

Special mention to Mallory Swanson, who celebrated her 100th cap with a clutch goal in the Olympic final. It's the stuff of an athlete at the peak of her career, rising to the most high-pressure moments.

Up-and-coming stars to watch

No category perhaps brings that same level of excitement as the Young Player of the Year award; it's a peek into the future. The likes of Ally Sentnor, Claire Hutton, and Kennedy Fuller represent a youth system that is hitting its stride.

Take Ally Sentnor, for example-she's a case of consistency. Captain of the U-20 World Cup team, collecting awards left and right to make her name known as one of the best forwards of her generation. Meanwhile, Kennedy Fuller was a shining star in the U-17 category, capturing the Concacaf Golden Ball and the World Cup Silver Boot. This easy transition from youth into the senior categories is what makes the US a powerhouse in soccer around the world.

Epic moments that defined 2024

No season would go complete without some unforgettable matches, and 2024 delivered in droves. The Game of the Year award spotlights clashes that thrilled fans and shaped the year for both national teams and clubs. Among the highlights was the USWNT's 4–1 triumph over Germany at the Olympics.

The gold medal showdown against Brazil, though, stands out as the pinnacle. It was a game that epitomized the USWNT’s grit and excellence. Alyssa Naeher’s flawless performance solidified her place among the sport’s all-time greats, alongside legends like Hope Solo.

The engine behind new stars

The National Women's Soccer League continues to play a key role in the development of soccer talents across the United States. As the premier domestic league in the land, it offers the first clear platform that prepares young talents for the rigors of international competitions. Such examples of talent include Mallory Swanson, Sophia Smith, and Ally Sentnor.

Sophia Smith didn't just dominate with the Portland Thorns in goals and assists, carrying that confidence into the national team and delivering game-winning performances at the Paris Olympics. Similarly, Mallory Swanson leveraged her NWSL experience to sharpen her game and become a critical component of the USWNT's gold medal journey.

The NWSL is a necessary level of professional experience for younger talents such as Ally Sentnor, one that bridges the gap from youth tournaments to the senior stage. This connection of grassroots soccer to the professional level creates the foundation for continued competitiveness while inspiring the next generation.

With league expansion and the emergence of new franchises, the NWSL will continue to rise in global stock, proving how a well-structured ecosystem can drive success at every level of the game.

Lessons from 2024 for American Soccer

The year 2024 will be remembered as a landmark in US soccer, not just for the medals, goals, or awards, but for how these elements interweaved to tell a larger story. It's a year that has underlined the power of blending veteran talent with rising stars, underpinned by robust infrastructure and a steadily professionalizing system.

If 2025 were to be the target, then American soccer would be standing at that juncture in a unique manner. Brighter than ever, with recognized stars, vibrant prospects, and growing passion for the game in the future. And these years always lay the foundation for a lasting legacy on the international stage.