Listen to this article
Approximately 5 minutes
The audio version of this article was created using artificial intelligence technology. Pronunciation errors may occur. We work with our partners to continually analyze and improve results.
Vanessa Gilles and Jonathan David were named Canada's Soccer Player of the Year for the second year in a row.
Gilles, a center back who plays club soccer for Germany's Bayern Munich, beat San Diego Wave forward Adriana Leon and Manchester United defender Jade Riviere.
David, a striker who plays for Juventus in Italy, beat Vancouver Whitecaps striker Ali Ahmed and Villarreal striker Tajon Buchanan.
Gilles and David are recognized as co-winners of the award, which was decided by a vote of media representatives and Canada Soccer coaches.
David, who was named CONCACAF Player of the Year for the 2024-25 season in November, also won Canada's award in 2019.
On February 22, Gilles marked her 50th cap for Canada with a goal in a 2–0 win over Mexico in the Pinatar Cup, a victory that clinched the tournament title.
“I am honored to once again be named the Canadian Women's Soccer Player of the Year,” Gilles said in a statement. “There was a time when I never thought I would get the opportunity to play for this team, let alone be nominated alongside so many incredible role models for this country.”
The 28-year-old from Ottawa made eight appearances for Canada in 2025, starting six, and was an important player when healthy while fellow center Kadeisha Buchanan was sidelined with a knee injury. The Canadians are 4-3-1 when Gilles has played this year and 2-3-1 when she hasn't played.
“After a difficult year, both for me personally and for the group, this recognition means a lot to me,” Gilles said. “Wearing the Canada jersey is an absolute privilege and we will continue to work and do everything we can to help this team move forward.”
“Intelligence, Leadership”
The Canadians finished the year with a five-game losing streak and a 454-minute drought.
Gilles started the year with Lyon Feminin, making 13 appearances and 1,120 minutes, scoring four goals and providing one assist. She helped the French team win the league title in the 2024/25 season and reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Women's Champions League.
She joined Bayern in May, scoring three goals in seven appearances to date.
“[Gilles] commands the field with intelligence, leadership and composure under pressure, instilling confidence in everyone around him,” said Canada coach Casey Stoney. “Her consistent performances for Team Canada and at the highest level of club soccer make her a player you can always count on, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of her influence.”
An aerial threat, Gilles has scored eight goals in 56 caps for Canada.
David appeared in all 14 of Canada's matches this year, scoring six goals and adding two assists. The stylish striker has 73 caps and leads all Canadian men with 37 goals.
David scored eight goals and made seven assists for French Lille before moving to legendary Italian club Juventus on a free transfer. The 25-year-old from Ottawa scored on his debut in a 2-0 win over Parma in the Serie A season opener, then suffered a goal drought before scoring twice in the Champions League game.
“Jonathan is a consummate professional and is fully deserving of the Canadian Player of the Year award,” said Canada coach Jesse Marsh. “Johnny is an incredible person and talented player.
“To understand his commitment and desire to play for Canada, you only need to look at the Gold Cup this summer. He put on our jersey when he didn't even have a professional contract in place. He fully understands what it means to be Canadian and compete for a badge.”
Male nominees included Promise David, Richie Laryea, Tani Oluwaseyi, Niko Sigur and Dane St. Clair, while female nominees included Marie-Yasmine Alidu, Emma Regan, Janine Sonis, Holly Ward and Shelina Zadorsky.
Olivia Chisholm and Luc De Fougerolles were named young players of the year earlier this week. Duncan McDonald was named Footballer of the Year and Lea Palacio-Tellier was named Futsal Player of the Year.
Maxime Crepeau received the Allstate Good Hands Award for Best Save.
Previous Canadian Soccer Winners
- 2025: Jonathan David, Vanessa Gilles
- 2024: Jonathan David, Vanessa Gilles
- 2023: Stephen Estakio, Jesse Fleming
- 2022: Alphonso Davies, Jesse Fleming
- 2021: Alphonso Davies, Jesse Fleming
- 2020: Alphonso Davis, Kadeisha Buchanan
- 2019: Jonathan David, Ashley Lawrence
- 2018: Alphonso Davies, Christine Sinclair
- 2017: Atiba Hutchinson, Kadeisha Buchanan
- 2016: Atiba Hutchinson, Christine Sinclair
- 2015: Atiba Hutchinson, Kadeisha Buchanan
- 2014: Atiba Hutchinson, Christine Sinclair
- 2013: Will Johnson, Christine Sinclair
- 2012: Atiba Hutchinson, Christine Sinclair
- 2011: Dwayne DeRosario, Christine Sinclair
- 2010: Atiba Hutchinson, Christine Sinclair
- 2009: Simeon Jackson, Christine Sinclair
- 2008: Julian de Guzman, Christine Sinclair
