Emma Hayes snagged the Best FIFA Women’s Coach of 2024 award on December 17, 2024, in Doha, Qatar—and let’s be real, no one was surprised. FIFA President Gianni Infantino handed her the trophy, and Hayes, being the rockstar she is, kept it humble, saying, “I dedicate this award to all the players, coaches, and staff who’ve been on this wild ride with me.” Total class isn’t it? But, as they say, there’s always someone ready to keep you grounded. While the world was still applauding, a certain reminder came along—one that hinted there’s always a tougher challenge waiting just around the corner.

“Emma Hayes, and we’re calling her our own now, gets women’s coach of the year. I don’t think anybody is going to argue in the least that this was absolutely deserved,” this was what Infantino said, before honoring her. With that kind of recognition, Hayes was clearly on a roll, and she wasn’t done yet. Managing Chelsea FC, and now USWNT has taken on a renewed coaching experience for Hayes, who finds joy and purpose in her new challenge.

Now, you’d think she’d be living her best life. And she was—for a hot second. But just when the confetti was still floating around, USMNT legend Alexi Lalas  hit her with a curveball on his podcast with guest Stu Holden, saying, “We know she has bigger fish to fry when it comes to the World Cup in the future here.” The award was the icing on the cake, but Hayes knows this is just the start of something much bigger.

Going with the controversial Korbin Albert without the veteran Alex Morgan and then watching the USWNT win gold at Paris 2024, defeating Brazil 1-0, underscores her commitment to the success of the team over individuals. Now with the future competitions in front of BH, such as preparing for the USWNT for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the pressure is on her to maintain and extend her success.

So, even as she celebrates her success, the stakes for Hayes are only getting higher. She’s at the top, but there’s more to come. And yes, we’re all ears and eagerly waiting for what’s next.

Hayes keeps her eyes on the bigger picture

“But she hit the ground running from AUS perspective and certainly has the cachet over a number of years that anybody checking that box next to Emma Hayes in this year or, let’s be honest, any of the years past, couldn’t have any argument.” Stu Holden remarked. It is clear by this line: Hayes was highly suited to take Chelsea forward and that her reputation would be hard to shake. Even when inquired about the potential of coaching Australia’s national team in 2023, after the departure of Tony Gustavsson, that was the definition of a woman’s international grasp is off the charts!

Emma Hayes is quietly preparing for significant contributions to the future of women’s football. She is working on shaping the U.S. Women’s National Team for the 2027 World Cup, while also nurturing young talent through an under-23 team . Her efforts extend to creating a more inclusive football environment with a focus on female participation. In addition, Hayes is planning important friendlies, including a match with England at Wembley, to help refine the team’s skills. Her partnership with SMAC Entertainment is opening doors for brand collaborations, media projects, and other ventures, further expanding her influence off the field.

All the hype, and she still decided to stay with Chelsea and now with USWNT, instead of continuing to push the side’s already impressive women’s football dominance. Everybody watches Emma as she writes another chapter in her story. Whether she dazzles in the club season or shines at the 2027 Women’s World Cup with the national team, one thing is clear – Emma Hayes won’t slow down anytime soon.