Holly McNamara's 2024/25 season was a tale of remarkable resilience and triumph. She bounced back from an anterior cruciate ligament injury to deliver an unforgettable season that saw her clinch the Golden Boot in the A-League Women with 15 goals, while also playing an instrumental role in taking Melbourne City FC to a runners-up finish at the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League™ (AWCL).

“To be following the footsteps of so many notable Australians and be nominated for such a prestigious award alongside two incredible players is a huge honour, and while individual recognition is always special, I see this as a reflection of the hard work of my teammates, coaches, and everyone at City,” said McNamara.

 

“To win would be incredible, but I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself. Right now, I’m just grateful for the nomination and want to focus on enjoying my football, and continue to work hard and contribute to the team’s success.”

 

A near-perfect season for McNamara’s Melbourne City was halted only at the final hurdle as China PR’s Wuhan Jiangda Women’s FC topped them in the Final of the AWCL, where the talismanic Wang Shuang showcased her trademark poise under pressure when she coolly converted a late penalty to bring the home side back from the brink of defeat.

With 130 appearances for China PR to her name, the 30-year-old helped the Steel Roses to a runners-up finish at the East Asian Football Federation E-1 Football Championship 2025 and is now eyeing a second AFC Women’s Player of the Year award, following her first triumph in 2018.

“To be nominated once again after seven years is both gratifying and an honour. When I found out about the nomination, I was initially calm, but since yesterday, as I was making my way to Riyadh, I have been very happy,” said the midfielder. “If I win this award for a second time, and that too in the country where my idol Cristiano Ronaldo is playing, it will be a matter of great joy for me."

 

“Women’s football in China PR has been steadily developing over the last decade and if I win, it will be extremely motivating for the next generation of players to pursue their dreams with courage.

 

“That Final against Melbourne City is a memory that both Wuhan players and fans will cherish forever. As the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ approaches, I hope to lead and guide the younger players in the China PR team to shine, no matter the challenges ahead.”

Completing the stellar trio, Japan’s Hana Takahashi’s defensive solidity and leadership have continued to anchor Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies’ success, with the 25-year-old helping the reigning champions secure their second domestic cup title and a third-place league finish, while also steering them to the Quarter-finals of the AWCL.

 

On the international stage, the Saitama native further cemented herself as one of Japan’s most dependable performers at the back, featuring in every match at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where the Nadeshiko reached the last eight.

 

“Besides being really surprised and honoured, the nomination is a matter of pride for me as I get to represent the WE League and Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies on this stage,” said Takahashi.

 

“There are so many Japanese footballers who are making their mark on the international stage and this recognition will motivate me to work harder and take more responsibility.”

For the full list of nominees, click HERE, and for live streaming of Thursday’s AFC Awards Riyadh 2025 [starting from 8pm Saudi Arabia Standard Time (GMT+3)], please click HERE.