Naomi Girma commends Emma Hayes' transformative management style in guiding the USWNT.
U.S. soccer defender Naomi Girma stated that Emma Hayes' winning attitude significantly influenced the team following a challenging season last year.
The U.S. women's team faced severe criticism following their unexpected elimination in the Round of 16 at the 2023 Women's World Cup. This disappointing outcome led to Vlatko Andonovski's decision to resign before U.S. Soccer appointed Emma Hayes.
Hayes, a pioneer in women's soccer, took charge of the team in May of the same year, following her impressive tenure with Chelsea, where she guided them to seven Women's Super League titles in England.
In a short time, before the Paris Olympics, Hayes joined the team and managed to lead them to victory, earning the gold medal.
"Last year was essentially a transition year," Girma told FIFA. "For many of us, it was our first time participating in a major tournament. During this year, building the confidence of young players was crucial for us.
"Emma's arrival ahead of the Olympics, introducing her playstyle and energy, was incredibly significant as well. We developed the belief that we could win major games and competitions."
Olympic Gold Medal
At the Paris Games, Girma was a top performer for the U.S., playing all 6 matches without a break. The 24-year-old was "extremely proud" of the team's achievements in the tournament and believed they improved as it progressed.
"I feel like we improved throughout the tournament," Girma added. "It was truly inspiring to represent Team USA in the Olympics. Winning gold made the experience even more special.
"As a collective, I believe we complemented one another well. Despite not having much experience playing together or with Emma, our chemistry on and off the field was outstanding."
'Emma Is a Winner'
Along with their Olympic gold medal achievement, the USWNT also won the SheBelieves Cup and CONCACAF W Gold Cup and climbed back to the top spot in the FIFA rankings.
The team's dominance in women's soccer has been restored, in part, due to Hayes' influence, who is leading a national team for the first time.
"Emma's a winner," Girma said. "And that's been a constant characteristic of this team for so many years. To have her join us with this mentality, and push us further in that direction, was fantastic.
"She's a fun person outside the field, and she can connect with us on a personal level – while being serious when necessary. Having this balance makes participating in major tournaments, which can be stressful, feel less pressured."
FIFA Award Nomination
Girma experienced personal victories alongside the team's success. The San Diego Wave player was recognized with a nomination for the Best FIFA Women’s Player Award, joining two other defenders on the list.
"To be nominated for this award is a tremendous honor," Girma said. "I'm grateful to be considered in this category, but I always want to emphasize that it wouldn't be possible without the team and their fantastic performances."
Alongside Girma, Lindsey Horan, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson were also recognized with FIFA award nominations from the U.S. team.
- Naomi Girma credited Emma Hayes' winning attitude for influencing Team USA following their challenging 2023 Women's World Cup exit, leading to their Olympic victory.
- Hayes joined Team USA prior to the Paris Olympics and guided them to victory, securing the gold medal and restoring the team's dominance in women's soccer.
- Girma, who was a top performer in all 6 matches at the Paris Olympics, praised Emma Hayes' leadership style, citing her balance of being a fun person and being serious when necessary.
- With Hayes leading Team USA, the team not only won the Paris Olympics but also the SheBelieves Cup and CONCACAF W Gold Cup, climbing back to the top spot in the FIFA rankings.
- Girma was personally recognized with a nomination for the Best FIFA Women’s Player Award, joining two other defenders on the list, as a result of Team USA's success in major tournaments under Hayes.
