Every year, FIFPRO and about 70 player unions provide links to a voting platform for over 3000 players to nominate candidates for the FIFPRO World XI. When the list of FIFPRO Women’s World XI nominees came to light, USWNT fans expressed their disappointment. Especially since Naomi Girma was the only American player named. Former USMNT star Alexi Lalas echoed the frustration of fans. 

With only one player from the US making it to the 26-person nominee list, fans expressed their frustration at seeing Naomi Girma left out of the FIFPRO World XI starting lineup. Given Girma’s key role in Emma Hayes’ Olympic Gold-winning USWNT side in Paris 2024, fans felt the list was unjust and biased towards the European side of soccer. 

Speaking on his ‘State of the Union’ Podcast’, Lalas questions whether the Olympics lost its status as a major tournament. “This is an Absolute Farce! Why is Naomi Girma not in this lineup? Why are no Americans in this lineup?” asked Lalas. He even drew a comparison on how Lionel Messi also didn’t make it to the Men’s XI, because he plays in the MLS. 

“I am just showing you what the reality is, and it’s not an excuse, American players, whether it’s men or women, they have to battle through,” says Lalas if they are to change their perception. USMNT captain Christian Pulisic, in his documentary, mentioned how prejudice exists towards American soccer players in Europe. Fans quickly took to social media claiming the same reason why Girma did not make the list. 

While the United States may not dominate in the world of soccer, the USWNT stands tall with four World Cup titles, the most of any other team. Since Emma Hayes took charge, her side remains unbeaten, boosted by Girma’s consistent performances at the back. U.S. Soccer Player of the Year, and NWSL Defender of the Year, are just a few of her many achievements. 

Naomi Girma: More than just a soccer player

While her focus on the field is unmatched, she’s also making significant strides off it. She is a big part of ‘Create the Space’ a new mental health programme which supports players and staff working in the beautiful game. Create the Space held its first major event in January this year, which saw players and youth coaches from the NWSL attend the camp. 

Girma set up the initiative after losing her best friend, Katie Meyer, by suicide in 2022. The duo knew each other from their days as teammates at Stanford University. This proves she’s not just a talented footballer but an incredible human being. Her charitable endeavors also indicate that she has a bright future ahead of her even after her playing career comes to a close.

Though the center-back did not make it to the FIFPRO Women’s World XI, she’s been nominated for Best FIFA Women’s Player Award. Going forward, Hayes will be counting on Girma’s on-field presence as well as the radiant energy she brings her teammates off-field.