In an unprecedented achievement for the National Women's Soccer League, Kansas City Current's formidable forward Temwa Chawinga has cemented her legendary status by winning the Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive year.
The 27-year-old Malawian international, also a Ballon d'Or nominee, received the honour on Wednesday in San Jose, California, making her the first player in the league's history to claim the MVP title in back-to-back seasons.
A Record-Breaking Campaign
Chawinga's 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular. Despite being sidelined in October with an adductor injury to her right leg, she dominated the league's scoring charts. She netted 15 goals and provided three assists across 23 appearances, a performance that also earned her the NWSL Golden Boot.
Her impact on the pitch was decisive. Six of her 15 goals were game-winners, matching the record she set herself during her debut season last year. Furthermore, she etched her name in the history books by tying the league record for scoring in eight consecutive regular-season matches.
Chawinga's goal-scoring prowess was evident early in the year when, in May, she became the fastest player ever to reach 25 regular-season goals in the NWSL.
Kansas City's Dominant Season
The Malawian star's individual brilliance was a driving force behind her team's phenomenal success. The Kansas City Current finished the regular season at the top of the NWSL standings, setting two new league records in the process. The team amassed an incredible 65 points and 21 wins, establishing a new benchmark for excellence.
Celebrating the NWSL's Best
The MVP announcement was part of the broader 2025 NWSL season awards ceremony, which recognised outstanding talent across the league.
Washington Spirit's Tara McKeown was named Defender of the Year, while her team prepares to face Gotham FC in the championship final this Saturday.
Gotham FC also had cause for celebration as Lilly Reale earned the Rookie of the Year award. In a remarkable week for the young player, this accolade came on the same day she was named to the US women's national team roster for its final two games of the year. Reale featured in every single match for Gotham this season.
Other notable winners included:
- Lorena (Kansas City Current) - Goalkeeper of the Year
- Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage) - Midfielder of the Year
- Bev Yanez (Racing Louisville) - Coach of the Year
Yanez, 37, made history herself by becoming the first former NWSL player to win the coaching honour. She masterfully led Racing Louisville to their first-ever playoff appearance. "I'm so grateful for the team – for the team believing in me, trusting in me. I couldn't be up here without them," Yanez stated emotionally.
Beyond the pitch, the Portland Thorns' Sam Hiatt was honoured with the Lauren Holiday Impact Award for her charitable work with Candlelighters Oregon. The organisation, which supports children with cancer and their families, will receive a $50,000 donation from Nationwide.
The NWSL season culminates this weekend with the championship final, showcasing the league's brightest talents and celebrating a year of historic individual achievements, led by the phenomenal Temwa Chawinga.
