Kansas City, Missouri — The Kansas City Current's forward, Temwa Chawinga, has made history by being named the MVP of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for the 2024 season. The announcement was made just one day before the league's championship match, showcasing the excitement surrounding this year's awards.
Chawinga's remarkable performance set her apart this season, earning her the coveted title and making her the first African international player to receive this honor. She not only dazzled fans with her skills but also etched her name in the record books by scoring 20 goals throughout the season, breaking the previous league record of 18 goals held by Sam Kerr, accomplished during the 2019 season.
Initially joining the Current from the Chinese Super League, Chawinga quickly adapted and became one of the league's most dynamic strikers. Her goal-scoring ability was on full display as she found the net against every opponent she faced, becoming the first player to achieve this feat. Impressively, she managed to score in 13 out of the last 14 matches of the regular season, including goals in eight consecutive games — another first for the league.
General manager Caitlin Carducci expressed her enthusiasm about Chawinga's performance: "From the moment Temwa came to Kansas City, we knew she was capable of playing at an MVP level. Not only has she been incredible on the pitch, but she's also been an outstanding teammate and representative of the organization off it. Temwa laid down a fantastic foundation with her play this season, and we're excited about what's to come." Chawinga is not just recognized for her offensive prowess; her ability to create opportunities for her teammates also shone through, evidenced by her five assists, contributing to the Current's record-breaking total of 57 goals for the season.
This tally of 20 goals was no fluke. Chawinga achieved multiple braces during the season, including standout performances where she scored two goals and assisted another. Her contributions were pivotal, guiding the Current to secure the fourth seed for the playoffs with an impressive overall record of 16 wins, three losses, and seven draws.
Chawinga's rise has been punctuated with accolades and recognition not only within the league but also on the international stage. Recently, she was nominated for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year, alongside fellow NWSL star Barbra Banda, highlighting her emergence as one of the most formidable players globally.
Her dedication and talent have not only brought her personal success but have also elevated the Kansas City Current to new heights. The team celebrated their first trophy victory by winning the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, where Chawinga scored both goals to lead her team to triumph over Gotham FC. This achievement marked a significant milestone for both her and the club.
The voting process for the MVP was comprehensive and involved multiple stakeholders, including owners, general managers, coaches, players, and media. The preliminary round indicated her popularity and leadership on the field, but the final voting considered multiple channels, ensuring fairness and representation across the league's community.
The NWSL MVP award continues to reflect the growing talent and competitive spirit within women's soccer. The league has quickly evolved, and with players like Chawinga at the forefront, the visibility of women's soccer continues to expand, igniting interest and support among fans.
Chawinga's acheivments are not only rooted in personal milestones but also symbolize the increasing normalization and support for women's sports on larger platforms. Her success story is inspirational, not just for aspiring soccer players but for anyone overcoming barriers and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Before joining the Current, Chawinga experienced significant success internationally, including standout performances with the Malawi national team. Her transition to the NWSL has been characterized by rapid acclimatization and exceptional output, setting high expectations for the future.
Looking ahead, as the season progresses and with the playoffs underway, all eyes will be on Chawinga as she continues to break barriers and shine on the field. Fans eagerly anticipate how far she will drive the Current this postseason and what more achievements await the talented forward.
Chawinga reflects the heart and passion of women’s soccer. Her goal-scoring talent, alongside her commitment to teamwork and community engagement, makes her not only a role model on the pitch but also on the global sports stage. With her trailblazing successes, the future looks bright for both her and the NWSL, as they continue to capture the hearts of fans worldwide.
Indeed, Temwa Chawinga’s legacy has just begun, and as she steps onto the field, the world watches with bated breath, ready to witness the next chapter of her incredible story.
