Gift Monday Bio
Gift Nyakno Monday (born 9 December 2001) is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for the Washington Spirit of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the Nigeria national team. Known for her speed and goal-scoring ability, Monday has made significant contributions to her teams at both club and international levels, showcasing her talent on various prestigious platforms.
Early Life and Background
Gift Nyakno Monday was born in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. Growing up in a region where soccer is a popular sport, she was exposed to football from a young age, which helped her develop a passion for the game. The supportive environment in her hometown allowed her to cultivate her skills, leading her to pursue a career in professional soccer. Although specific details about her early education and family background are not widely documented, her journey into football began in her formative years.
Path to Soccer
Gift Monday began her soccer career in 2016 when she joined COD United Amazons, where she played until 2018. During her time with the team, she honed her skills and gained valuable experience on the field. Following her stint at COD United Amazons, she moved to FC Robo, where she continued to develop her game and make a name for herself in the Nigerian women’s soccer scene. Her performances caught the attention of scouts, leading to opportunities with more prominent clubs in the league.
Gift Monday Career
Early Career (2016–2021)
Gift Monday’s early career was marked by her impressive performances at FC Robo, where she was recognized as the league’s Player of the Month for two consecutive months in early 2021. She played a pivotal role in a match against Rivers Angels, scoring a brace that secured a 2–1 victory for her team. In 2021, she joined Bayelsa Queens, where she not only helped the team win the league title but also emerged as the top scorer of the season. Her success at the club level laid the foundation for her future endeavors in soccer.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
In September 2022, Gift Monday made a significant move to the Spanish Liga F club UD Granadilla Tenerife. This transition marked a new chapter in her career as she sought to compete at a higher level in European soccer. On 25 March 2025, she was acquired by the Washington Spirit, signing a three-year contract with an option for an additional year. She made her debut for the Spirit on 12 April 2025, contributing to a 2–0 victory over Racing Louisville FC. Just a week later, she scored her first goal in the NWSL, showcasing her ability to make an immediate impact.
Notable Works and Milestones
Gift Monday’s signature moment came when she registered the fastest hat-trick in NWSL history, scoring three goals in under 36 minutes against the Houston Dash. This achievement not only highlighted her scoring prowess but also solidified her status as a rising star in women’s soccer.
Gift Monday Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Gift Monday has received various nominations and accolades, particularly for her performances in domestic leagues and international competitions. Her recognition as a top player in the Nigerian league and her contributions to the national team underscore her growing reputation in the sport.
Gift Monday Awards Won
Gift Monday’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including leading her team to victory in the African Games and contributing to the Nigerian national team’s success in international tournaments. Her individual accolades reflect her talent and dedication to the sport.
Gift Monday Family
Details about Gift Monday’s family are not publicly available, and there is limited information regarding her personal life outside of soccer. As a professional athlete, she has focused primarily on her career and contributions to the sport.
Personal Life
Gift Monday has remained private about her personal life, with no publicly available information regarding relationships or children. Her commitment to soccer has been the primary focus of her public persona, and she continues to inspire many young athletes in Nigeria and beyond.
