Malawian Temwa Chawinga celebrates dream USA award

The 2025 CAF Best Women’s Footballer of the Year nominee Temwa Chawinga has reacted to her latest feat in the United States.

The Malawian became the first player in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to retain the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for two consecutive seasons on Wednesday.

The Kansas City Current star received the MVP accolade from T & T at the inaugural NWSL gala in San Jose to cap off yet another successful season that saw her also retain the Golden Boot Award.

In her acceptance speech after retaining the award, the 2025 FIFA Best Women’s Award nominees acknowledge the role her Current team mates played in her success.

“Thank you to the coaches and players who voted for me. It is a big dream for me to be here to win. Next year is also another chapter,” she said.

Tabitha Chawinga comments on Temwa’s exploits

Her star sister Tabitha has since sent a congratulatory message to her sibling.

“Becoming MVP, winning the Golden Boot, and earning a place in the Best XI is nothing short of incredible. Your hard work, discipline and belief in yourself continue to shine through every performance. Keep breaking barriers and inspiring all of us, this is only the beginning of your greatness,” the Lyon forward wrote on her Facebook page.

Football Association of Malawi president Fleetwood Haiya has also joined those who are congratulating the star forward who is currently injured.

“Congratulations to Temwa TC6 Chawinga for being voted MVP for the second consecutive season—an outstanding achievement that reflects your hard work and talent,” he said via his Facebook page.

“The consistent top performance proves that you are a special player. I wish you a quick and complete recovery as we look forward to seeing you back in action ahead of WAFCON in Morocco. The nation celebrates with you.”

Temwa joined Sam Kerr (2017, 2019) as the only players in league’s history to win the MVP award for at least two times.

The Scorchers forward finished the season with 15 goals and three assists in 23 regular season games as the Current won their first-ever NWSL Shield. The Ballon d’Or nominee is among the players to watch for debutants Malawi at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2026.