Pyari Xaxa Honored as Best Women’s Footballer at Indian Football Awards

The Indian Football Awards 2025 recognized Pyari Xaxa, the Odisha and India striker, as the Best Women’s Indian Player of the Year. The awards ceremony, organized by the Football Players Association of India (FPAI), took place in Shillong on June 29. Pyari, who plays for Odisha FC Women in the IWL, was unable to attend the event due to her participation in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Thailand. The 28-year-old player from Sundargarh, Odisha, notably contributed five goals in India’s match against Mongolia. Sunil Chhetri, a celebrated figure in Indian football, was also awarded Indian Player of the Year, marking his return from retirement. The winners across various categories were chosen through a voting process involving active football players. Other notable winners included Brison Fernandes, Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Edmund Lalrindika, Khalid Jamil, and Naorem Priyanka Devi.