It’s been a breakthrough season for Deborah Abiodun, the young Nigerian midfielder making her mark with the Washington Spirit in the NWSL. In early October, she was named the NWSL Rookie of the Month for September, a recognition of her growing influence and impressive adaptation to top-flight football in the United States.

Since making her NWSL debut on August 31 against Chicago and earning her first start a week later in Washington’s 2-0 win over Seattle, Abiodun has shown maturity and composure beyond her years. In September, she started three consecutive matches, anchoring the midfield and contributing to the Spirit’s three multi-goal performances and three clean sheets, a sign of her steady impact both defensively and in transition.

Her award continues a proud trend for the club, as she becomes the sixth Spirit player to receive the league’s Rookie of the Month honor since 2024. Selected by the NWSL Media Association and the league’s on-air broadcast team, the recognition underscores Abiodun’s growing reputation as one of the league’s most promising young talents.

As the season heads into its final stretch, all eyes will be on Abiodun, a rising star whose energy, precision, and presence in midfield are quickly making her a fan favorite in Washington.