Khadija Monifa “Bunny” Shaw’s journey from the vibrant streets of Spanish Town, Jamaica, to the pinnacle of women’s football and becoming Manchester City’s all-time leading goalscorer and the captain of the Jamaican national team, Shaw has shattered records and defied expectations, becoming a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on January 31, 1997, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Khadija Shaw was the youngest of 13 siblings in a close-knit family. Her father, George, worked as a shoemaker, while her mother, Monica, was a chicken farmer.
Despite initial reservations about her daughter’s involvement in football, Monica’s perspective changed as Shaw’s passion and talent became evident. The nickname “Bunny” was affectionately given to her by her brother Kentardo, inspired by her childhood love for carrots.
Growing up in a challenging environment, Shaw faced personal tragedies, including the loss of four brothers, three to gang-related violence and one in a car accident. These experiences instilled in her a profound resilience and a drive to succeed, using football as both an escape and a platform for change.
At the age of 10, under the guidance of her brother Kentardo, Shaw began honing her football skills. By 13, she had earned a spot on Jamaica’s U15 national team, showcasing her prodigious talent on the international stage.
Her early promise attracted scholarship offers from institutions in the United States, leading her to attend Eastern Florida State College before transferring to the University of Tennessee.
There, she majored in communication and continued to excel on the soccer field, earning accolades and setting the stage for her professional career.
Collegiate Career and Rise to Prominence
At Eastern Florida State College, Shaw quickly established herself as a formidable forward, earning NJCAA All-America honors for her outstanding performances. Her success caught the attention of the University of Tennessee, where she transferred to further both her academic and athletic pursuits.
During her time with the Tennessee Volunteers, Shaw’s impact was immediate and profound. She was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Offensive Player of the Year in 2018, a testament to her scoring prowess and leadership on the field.
Shaw’s collegiate success not only elevated her profile but also paved the way for her entry into professional football. Her blend of physicality, technical skill, and tactical awareness made her a sought-after talent among top-tier clubs.
Bordeaux (2019–2021)
In June 2019, Shaw signed with French Division 1 Féminine club Bordeaux, marking the beginning of her professional career. She made an immediate impact, scoring a brace on her debut against FC Fleury 91 and continuing to find the back of the net consistently throughout the season.
During the 2020–21 season, Shaw’s goal-scoring exploits reached new heights. She netted 22 goals in 20 league matches, earning her the title of top scorer in the Division 1 Féminine. Her performances garnered multiple Player of the Month awards and a place in the league’s Team of the Year.
Manchester City (2021–Present)
In June 2021, Shaw signed a three-year deal with English Women’s Super League (WSL) club Manchester City. Initially serving as a backup to veteran striker Ellen White, Shaw quickly demonstrated her value, scoring crucial goals and earning a starting position.
The 2022–23 season marked a turning point in Shaw’s career. Following White’s retirement, she became the team’s primary striker, scoring 31 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions. Her remarkable form earned her the club’s Player of the Season award and a nomination for the Ballon d’Or.
In the 2023–24 season, Shaw continued to break records, becoming Manchester City’s all-time leading goalscorer and securing the WSL Golden Boot with 21 goals in 18 matches.
Her performances were recognized with multiple individual honors, including the Football Writers’ Association Women’s Player of the Year and the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year.
International Career
Shaw made her senior debut for the Jamaica women’s national team in August 2015, scoring twice in a 6–0 victory over the Dominican Republic. Since then, she has become the team’s all-time leading scorer, with 57 goals in 44 appearances.
Her leadership was instrumental in Jamaica’s historic qualification for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking the first time a Caribbean nation participated in the tournament. Shaw’s performances on the global stage brought attention to the potential of Caribbean women’s football.
In the 2023 World Cup, Shaw captained the Reggae Girlz to their first-ever knockout stage appearance, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer for Jamaican football.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Shaw’s journey has been marked by personal challenges, including the tragic loss of four brothers.
In February 2025, Shaw was subjected to racist and misogynistic abuse following a WSL match. Manchester City condemned the abuse, and Shaw responded with resilience, scoring twice in her next match and making a powerful statement against discrimination.
Her advocacy extends to promoting diversity and inclusion in sports, mentoring young athletes, and supporting community initiatives in Jamaica and beyond.
What’s Next for Khadija Shaw?
As of May 2025, Shaw continues to be a senior figure for Manchester City and the Jamaican national team. With her contract extended until 2026, she aims to lead City to domestic and European success, including a coveted UEFA Women’s Champions League title.
Internationally, Shaw is focused on guiding the Reggae Girlz to further achievements, including qualification for upcoming major tournaments and enhancing the team’s global standing.
Off the pitch, she remains committed to her advocacy work, aiming to inspire young athletes and promote equality in sports.
Shaw’s journey is far from over, and her influence is poised to grow as she continues to break barriers and set new standards in women’s football.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Khadija Shaw’s full name?
Khadija Monifa Shaw.
2. Why is she nicknamed “Bunny”?
Her brother Kentardo gave her the nickname because she loved eating carrots as a child.
3. When and where was she born?
January 31, 1997, in Spanish Town, Jamaica.
4. How tall is Khadija Shaw?
She is 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall.
5. What position does Khadija Shaw play?
She plays as a forward.
6. Which club does Khadija Shaw currently play for?
Manchester City in the English Women’s Super League (WSL).
7. What is her jersey number at Manchester City?
She wears jersey number 21.
8. Which clubs has Khadija Shaw played for professionally?
Bordeaux (France) and Manchester City (England).
9. Where did Khadija Shaw play college football?
Eastern Florida State College and the University of Tennessee.
10. What major honors has she achieved at the club level?
WSL Golden Boot (2023–24), Manchester City’s all-time leading goalscorer, multiple Player of the Month awards.
11. What are her major achievements with the Jamaica national team?
Led Jamaica to their first FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019 and their first knockout stage appearance in 2023.
12. How many goals has she scored for Jamaica?
57 goals in 44 appearances as of May 2025.
13. Has Khadija Shaw won any international individual awards?
She has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or Féminin and has received numerous regional awards like CONCACAF Women’s Player of the Year.
14. What personal challenges has Khadija Shaw faced?
She lost four brothers; three to violence and one in a car accident, which fueled her determination and resilience.
15. How did Shaw respond to racist abuse in 2025?
She continued to play brilliantly, scoring two goals in the following match and receiving widespread support for her courage and strength.
16. What is Khadija Shaw studying academically?
She studied Communication at the University of Tennessee.
17. What is Khadija Shaw’s playing style?
She is known for her strength, aerial ability, clinical finishing, and tactical intelligence.
18. What are Khadija Shaw’s goals for the future?
She aims to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Manchester City and continue elevating Jamaican women’s football.
19. Is Khadija Shaw involved in any advocacy or charity work?
Yes, she actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and better opportunities for women and girls in sports, particularly in Jamaica.
20. Has Shaw received recognition from the Jamaican government?
Yes, she has been honored for her contribution to Jamaican football and national pride.
21. Is Khadija Shaw active on social media?
Yes, she uses platforms like Instagram and Twitter to connect with fans and advocate for social issues.
22. What was Khadija Shaw’s biggest scoring season?
The 2023–24 season, where she scored 21 goals in 18 league games for Manchester City.
23. Who are Shaw’s football idols?
She has mentioned admiring players like Didier Drogba and Cristiano Ronaldo for their goal-scoring ability and leadership.
24. What has Khadija Shaw done to inspire young Jamaican athletes?
She visits schools, supports grassroots football initiatives, and uses her story to inspire the next generation.
25. What is next for Khadija Shaw internationally?
She aims to qualify Jamaica for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup and continue breaking barriers for Caribbean teams.
