It is no doubt that the first-year player in the National Women’s Soccer League was destined to scoop this award. The 26-year-old Malawian had a phenomenal season as a player and her presence on the field for Kansas City Current propelled the team to the semi-finals. Temwa Chawinga had a season full of breaking records that stood the test of time, such as scoring 20 goals in one season, formerly held by Sam Kerr at 18 goals in 2019.
She also became the first NWSL player to score a goal in eight consecutive games. Temwa also becomes the first player in the league to score against all 13 teams in the league. She was awarded the Golden Boot, the first time for the Kansas City Current to have an athlete receive such an honor while at the club.
Other Awards for the 2024 NWSL Season
Croix Bethune of Washington Spirit scooped two awards in her rookie year; 2024 NWSL Rookie of the Year and the Midfielder of the Year. It has indeed been a great year for the University of Georgia former player who led the season in assists at ten and scored five goals before she sustained a season-ending injury. She also played on the national team as an attacking midfielder in the Paris Olympics, where they won gold.
Other award winners include; Emily Sams from Orlando Pride, who scooped the Defender of the Year Award. Ann-Katrin Berger from Gotham FC was awarded Goalkeeper of the Year, and Coach Seb Hines of Orlando Pride was awarded the Coach of the Year. Coach Seb has led the Orlando Pride to their first NWSL Championship. All the award-winning athletes were named on the Best XI first team.
What Temwa’s Win Means
Temwa is just one of the 29 players of African descent to have played in the NWSL. Her exceptional performance as a quick-witted forward is a beacon of hope for many young athletes on the continent who dream of pursuing a professional career in such an elite league. She continues to be a symbol of reference on a continent where commercialization of women’s sports is still young and virgin. Her success is beyond just a personal win, but a win for the continent.
Previous Golden Boot NWSL in the Last Decade
2023: Sophia Smith, Portland Thorns
2022: Alex Morgan, San Diego Wave
2021: Ashley Hatch, Washington Spirit
2017-19: Sam Kerr. She holds the record for having the most NWSL Golden Boot awards, taking two while playing for the Chicago Red Stars (‘18 – 19) and Sky Blue FC in 2017.
2016: Lynn Williams, Western New York Flash
2015: Crystal Dunn, Washington Spirit
2014: Kim Little, Seattle Reign FC
