Nahomi Kawasumi
Midfielder / Winger · NTV Beleza · Japan
About Nahomi Kawasumi
Nahomi Kawasumi was the flying winger of Japan's 2011 Women's World Cup winning team — a pacy, direct attacker who provided constant width and created numerous chances in Japan's historic triumph.
Nahomi Kawasumi's story
Kobe's Flying Winger
Nahomi Kawasumi was born on 27 September 1985 in Kobe. A pacy winger with excellent dribbling ability, she became a key member of the Japanese national team — Nadeshiko Japan — during their golden era. Her directness and energy on the flanks were essential to Japan's attacking style.
2011 World Cup
Kawasumi was an important contributor to Japan's 2011 Women's World Cup triumph, providing width and creativity in the Japanese attack. Her performances helped Japan become the first Asian nation to win the Women's World Cup, in one of the biggest upsets in tournament history.
Seattle & America
Kawasumi's performances attracted the attention of American clubs and she signed for Seattle Reign in the NWSL, becoming one of the first Japanese players to succeed in American women's football. Her direct wing play was admired by coaches and fans alike.
Retirement
Kawasumi retired around 2018 after a career that spanned Japan's greatest era. She is remembered as one of the key members of the 2011 World Cup-winning generation.
Did you know?
- Kawasumi was a key member of the Japan squad that won the 2011 Women's World Cup — the first Asian team to win the tournament, defeating the USA on penalties in an extraordinary final.
- She was one of the first Japanese women's players to have significant success in the American NWSL, playing for Seattle Reign and helping open the door for Japanese players abroad.
- Kawasumi has spoken about how the 2011 World Cup triumph came just months after the devastating Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami — and how the squad dedicated their victory to the people of Japan recovering from that disaster.
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