Naomi Girma Becomes First $1 Million Player in Women's Soccer

The 24-year-old USWNT defender joins Chelsea from San Diego Wave in a record-breaking $1.1 million transfer deal.

Naomi Girma's $1.1 million transfer to Chelsea marks the first time a female soccer player has crossed the million-dollar threshold.
Girma, widely regarded as one of the world's best defenders, signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with Chelsea, running until 2029.
The transfer fee surpasses the previous record of $788,000 paid by Bay FC for Racheal Kundananji in 2024.
Girma's accolades include 2023 US Soccer Female Player of the Year, two NWSL Defender of the Year awards, and an Olympic gold medal with the USWNT in 2024.
Chelsea's head coach Sonia Bompastor confirmed that Girma's debut will be delayed due to a minor calf injury sustained during the off-season.