Rose Lavelle named 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year
- - Rose Lavelle named 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year
Seth Vertelney, USA TODAY January 16, 2026 at 9:34 PM
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Rose Lavelle named 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year
U.S. women’s national team midfielder Rose Lavelle has been voted the 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year.
The 30-year-old has won the award for the first time in her career, earning the honor after playing a vital role for the U.S. women's national team and Gotham FC in 2025.
Lavelle didn't play last year until June after overcoming an ankle injury that kept her out for seven months. But the playmaker hit the ground running for club and country when she did return to the pitch.
The Ohio native scored three goals and added two assists in her six matches with the USWNT in 2025.
With Gotham, Lavelle tallied five goals and two assists in 16 regular season games. The midfielder saved her biggest contribution for last, scoring an 80th-minute winner against the Washington Spirit in the NWSL championship game.
“I’m really happy for Rose, who is thriving. She’s an extremely selfless person who has been through a lot of adversity,” said USWNT head coach Emma Hayes.
“I think we all know that Rose is not only one of the best players in the world, but also one of the most fun to watch, and to coach, so it’s very satisfying to see her recognized in this way."
Lavelle earned 29.2% of the weighted vote, followed by Sam Coffey (23.9%) and Catarina Macario (22.3%).
"When I look at the past year, it feels like a testament to the support system I had, with my family, the medical staff at Gotham and with the national team, all my teammates, coaches and friends,” said Lavelle.
"I wouldn’t have been in the position to even be up for the award without all of the support I received throughout the year just to get back on the field. So, this award is definitely shared with all the people I was lucky enough to have in my corner along the way.”
Lilly Reale wins Young Player of the Year
Lilly Reale, Lavelle's teammate with the USWNT and Gotham FC, has been voted the 2025 U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year.
Reale played in all 26 regular-season matches for Gotham, earning NWSL Rookie of the Year honors.
The left back made her USWNT debut in June, earning six caps last year.
Reale earned 48% of the weighted vote, followed by Jordyn Bugg (29.6%) and Micayla Johnson (16.1%).
“I am constantly reminded of how special this national team program is when I reflect on all of the relationships, knowledge, laughs and opportunities that U.S. Soccer has given me over the years," said Reale.
“It was this environment where I first learned what it truly took to reach the next level and just how different each person’s journey will look. This year in particular has been one marked by major growth moments, joy and lots of lessons.
"Through it all, I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by such charismatic teammates, coaches and fans. Being able to play alongside many of my role models and represent my country at the highest level is something that I’ll never take for granted."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rose Lavelle named 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year
Source: “AOL Sports”
