Emma Hayes Named Ballon d’Or Women’s Soccer Coach of the Year

Emma Hayes, the former head coach of the Long Island Lady Riders, has been honored with the Ballon d’Or as the Women’s Soccer Coach of the Year. 

In 2022, she led the W League team and subsequently guided the U.S. women’s national team to a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Games. 

This marks the inaugural year for recognizing coaches in both men’s and women’s soccer categories. 

“It’s an absolute honor to be recognized for my achievements with both the U.S. women’s national team and Chelsea,” Hayes stated. “I want to extend my gratitude to all the staff and players from both teams, and I have great respect for my fellow nominees. They are exceptional coaches, and I’m proud to be among them. Football is a team game, and I am grateful to have led such amazing teams this year; this award is for everyone involved with the U.S. team and Chelsea.” 

Hayes took over as head coach of the USWNT in May after leading Chelsea FC to victory in the Women’s Super League. She managed only two matches before selecting the Olympic squad and coached two additional games prior to their departure for France. 

The U.S. team achieved a perfect record in France, winning all six matches, including three knockout games by 1-0 scores, ultimately defeating Brazil in the gold medal match. 

Hailing from England, Hayes boasts an impressive record of 11 wins and 1 draw as head coach of the USWNT.