Naomi Girma

Naomi Girma is an American professional soccer player widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world. Born on June 14, 2000, in San Jose, California, to Ethiopian immigrant parents, Girma developed her passion for soccer at a young age and rose through the youth ranks with remarkable speed. She played college soccer at Stanford University, where she won the MAC Hermann Trophy in 2021 as the nation’s best collegiate player and helped lead the Cardinal to the NCAA championship.

Girma was selected as the first overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft by the San Diego Wave FC, making an immediate impact in professional soccer. In her debut season, she earned NWSL Defender of the Year honors and was named to the NWSL Best XI. Her commanding presence at center back, exceptional reading of the game, and composure on the ball quickly made her indispensable for both club and country. She became a regular starter for the United States Women’s National Team and played a key role in the team’s campaigns in major international tournaments.

Off the pitch, Girma has secured endorsement deals with major brands including Nike and has become a prominent figure in the growing commercialization of women’s soccer. Her Ethiopian heritage has also made her a cultural icon and role model for diversity in American sports. As women’s soccer continues to grow in popularity and investment, Girma’s market value and earning potential have steadily increased.

By 2026, Naomi Girma’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $2 million, built through her NWSL salary, national team bonuses, and endorsement partnerships. She remains one of the most decorated young defenders in the sport and is widely expected to be a cornerstone of American soccer for years to come.