Hinata Miyazawa: The Rise of the Queen of Asian Football

Hinata Miyazawa is a dynamic midfielder and is the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Boot winner. The Japanese star is already equipped with a wealth of experience and international pedigree.

She is one of the stars of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup alongside star names such as Aitana Bonmatí, Jennifer Hermoso, Amanda Ilestedt and Mary Earps. Join Footballers’ Biographies as we explore the journey so far of Asia’s rising footballer queen.

Player Profile – Hinata Miyazawa

Hinata Miyazawa is a dynamic Japanese midfielder and forward, currently playing for Manchester United. She began her professional career with Nippon TV Beleza, where she earned the league’s Best Young Player award in 2018, and later moved to Mynavi Sendai for the inaugural WE League season in 2021.

Internationally, Miyazawa made her senior debut for Japan in 2018 after helping the U-20 team win the World Cup that same year.

Her breakout moment came during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she won the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer. This success led to her transfer to Manchester United, where she is expected to make a significant impact.

Player Profile Overview

Hinata Miyazawa’s Early Life and Background

Hinata Miyazawa was born on November 28, 1999, in Japan. Growing up, she demonstrated a strong passion for football from a young age, which set the foundation for her future career.

Unlike many of her peers who pursued the elite academy route, Miyazawa chose a different path, committing to her local junior high and high school for her early football development. Her decision to stay grounded in her community and focus on both academics and football reflects her humble beginnings and dedication.

Despite not having the same resources or exposure as those in elite programs, Miyazawa’s talent and hard work propelled her forward, eventually leading her to become a standout player for both her club and the national team. This background of perseverance and determination played a significant role in shaping the player she is today.

Hinata Miyazawa’s Playing Style and Strength

Hinata Miyazawa is a versatile and technically gifted player known for her ability to excel in multiple positions across the midfield and forward lines.

She combines sharp football intelligence with exceptional close control, precise passing, and clinical finishing, making her a potent attacking threat, especially in counterattacking situations.

Her game intelligence, including strong positioning and awareness, allows her to adapt to various tactical setups, while her composure under pressure and ability to control the game’s tempo add to her effectiveness.

Miyazawa’s versatility and tactical discipline make her a valuable asset, capable of influencing matches in numerous ways.

Hinata Miyazawa’s Career Highlights

Hinata Miyazawa’s football journey began in Japan, where she developed her talents after graduating from high school. She started her professional career with Nippon TV Beleza, one of Japan’s premier women’s football clubs following in the footsteps of Yui Hasegawa.

Miyazawa’s impact was immediate, earning the league’s Best Young Player award for the 2018 season. This recognition highlighted her as one of the most promising talents in Japanese football.

Hinata Miyazawa’s consistent development at the club level continued, and she eventually moved to Mynavi Sendai in 2021, where she participated in the inaugural season of Japan’s professional women’s football league, the WE League.

Hinata Miyazawa’s Ballon d’Or Feminin Nomination

On 6 September 2023, Miyazawa took the next step in her career by signing with Manchester United, marking her first move to a club outside of Japan. Joining Man United meant she got to play alongside great talents such as Ella Toone and the best goalkeeper in the world Mary Earps.

The following day, she was named on the shortlist for the Ballon d’Or Féminin, solidifying her status as one of the top players in the world. Hinata Miyazawa scored her first goal for the club, opening the scoring in the 5th minute of the second half against Bristol City in the WSL.

Her inclusion alongside her new Manchester United teammate, Mary Earps, underscored the global recognition of her talents and the anticipation for what she will bring to her new club and the broader football world.

Hinata Miyazawa’s International Career

Her prowess on the field quickly caught the attention of national selectors, leading to her inclusion in Japan’s youth teams. A pivotal moment in her early career came in 2018 when she played a crucial role in Japan’s Under-20 team, which won the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Hinata’s standout performance in the final against Spain, where she scored a decisive goal, was a testament to her rising star status.

Hinata Miyazawa’s National Team Debut

Later that same year, Miyazawa earned her first call-up to Japan’s senior national team. She made her debut in a 4-1 victory over Norway, showcasing her ability to transition seamlessly to the senior level.

Hinata’s international career reached new heights at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand. She made an immediate impact by scoring twice in Japan’s opening match against Zambia, earning the Player of the Match award.

Her standout performances continued, particularly in a match against eventual champions Spain, where she scored two goals and provided an assist. Miyazawa’s knack for finding the back of the net extended into the knockout rounds, with another goal against Norway.

Although Sweden eventually eliminated Japan in the quarter-finals, Miyazawa’s tally of five goals was enough to secure the tournament’s Golden Boot award.

Her ability to consistently find the back of the net against some of the best teams in the world was remarkable, especially considering the elite company she surpassed in the Golden Boot race, including stars like Alex Morgan, Sam Kerr, and Alexandra Popp.

Hinata Miyazawa at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris

The Manchester United star was among the WSL contingent in the Japanese squad for the Summer Olympics in Paris alongside Manchester City’s Yui Hasegawa.

Hinata Miyazawa started the first two group games before dropping to the bench for the match against Agba Baller and the Super Falcons of Nigeria. She was also on the bench as Japan lost in the quarter-finals to the USA courtesy of a Trinity Rodman goal in extra time.

Hinata Miyazawa vs. Homare Sawa: The Passing of the Torch

In the annals of Asian football, few names resonate as strongly as Homare Sawa, a trailblazer who defined an era. Comparisons between Miyazawa and Sawa are inevitable, but rather than overshadowing each other, their legacies complement one another.

Hinata Miyazawa’s rise represents the passing of the torch, a continuation of the path Sawa blazed. While Sawa was known for her leadership and consistency, Miyazawa brings a new dynamism and flair to the table.

Together, they represent the evolution of women’s football in Asia, with Miyazawa building on the foundation that Sawa laid.

How Hinata Miyazawa Stacks Up Against International Legends

When comparing Miyazawa to international legends, it is clear that she may eventually belong in the same conversation as the likes of Marta, Megan Rapinoe, and Alex Morgan.

Her performances on the world stage have been nothing short of spectacular, and her impact on the game rivals that of her global counterparts.

What sets Miyazawa apart is her unique blend of tactical intelligence and technical skill, qualities that make her a standout even among the best. In the global arena, Miyazawa is not just holding her own; she is leading the charge.

Personal Life of Hinata Miyazawa

Hinata Miyazawa leads a life characterized by humility and dedication. Despite her rising fame in the football world, she maintains a strong connection to her roots, having chosen to stay in her local junior high and high school rather than pursue the elite academy route.

This decision reflects her grounded personality and commitment to personal growth beyond the pitch. Balancing her academic pursuits with her football career, Miyazawa has managed to excel in both areas, showing a disciplined and focused approach to life.

Off the field, she is known for her quiet determination and strong work ethic, qualities that have endeared her to fans and teammates alike. Miyazawa’s personal life remains largely private, but her actions speak volumes about her values and the importance she places on hard work, education, and staying true to oneself.

Conclusion

Hinata Miyazawa’s journey from a promising talent in Japan to a global football sensation is a testament to her determination, versatility, and skill.

Her rapid rise to prominence, especially after her Golden Boot-winning performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, has cemented her status as one of the most exciting players in women’s football.

Now, with her move to Manchester United, Miyazawa continues to break new ground, inspiring young athletes worldwide and showcasing the impact of hard work and humility in achieving greatness. Her future in the sport looks incredibly bright, with many more chapters of success likely to come.