During Jaedyn Shaw’s time playing youth soccer at FC Dallas, she would style her hair in a sleek, high ponytail, using a black prewrap for added flair.

Shaw affectionately referred to it as a “Mal Pugh ponytail,” paying tribute to Mallory Swanson, formerly known as Pugh, the talented forward of the US national team who sported the same hairstyle.

Over the weekend, Shaw, who is only 19 years old, had the opportunity to play alongside her role model, who is now her teammate. The US team emerged victorious with a 2-1 win against Japan in the SheBelieves Cup, which took place in Atlanta. 50,644 people showed up to watch the game, which set a new record for attendance. This victory has propelled the US team to the final.

Sam Coffey provided an assist to Shaw, who scored the United States’ first goal. It was a 36th-minute equalizer, as Shaw unleashed a powerful low shot from outside the 18-yard box, finding the bottom right corner of the net.

She achieved a remarkable feat by scoring in each of her first five starts for the national team. Not only did she accomplish this in four starts, but she also holds the record for scoring seven goals in her first 11 internationals.

“She’s a footballer,” Lindsey Horan, the US captain, stated. Horan played alongside Shaw in midfield and was responsible for scoring the United States’ game-winning second goal, a penalty kick in the 77th minute, as she told.

She possesses a strong physical presence, yet her intelligence on the ball, technical skills, savviness, and creativity are truly remarkable.

Meanwhile, Swanson proudly wore the national team jersey once again, marking her return after a year-long absence due to a patellar tendon injury that prevented her from participating in last year’s Women’s World Cup.

She was someone I admired. Shaw expressed his admiration for Swanson, describing her as an exceptional player. I am thrilled that she has returned and I can spend time playing with her.

Shaw made his debut on the national team alongside Swanson in this match. Shaw made the decision to turn professional in July 2022, forgoing a scholarship offer from the University of North Carolina women’s soccer team in order to join the newly formed National Women’s Soccer League team, San Diego Wave FC. Since then, she has scored nine goals and recorded three assists.

“The Wave has played a significant role in my journey, enabling me to reach this level of play and make valuable contributions to the team.” Shaw acknowledged the significant contributions of his coaching staff and teammates. “I am absolutely thrilled to be here.”

Abby Dahlkemper, who played with Shaw in San Diego and on the national team, shared that she had conversations with the young player about the need for patience until her national team callup.

I informed her that she would be staying there for an extended period of time. You’ll have a long tenure with the national team. You have the potential to make a significant impact. And you know, it’s undeniable how incredibly talented she was. “She’s displaying a level of skill and maturity that surpasses her age,” Dahlkemper said.

In October 2023, Shaw received her first national team callup. She made an impressive impact, scoring in her second appearance and first start during a 3-0 victory against Colombia. In December, she delighted her hometown crowd in Frisco, Texas, by scoring the game-winning goal against China.

I feel like all of my goals involve others. Shaw expressed his belief that his teammates are consistently contributing and creating opportunities.

She maintained her impressive scoring streak during the United States’ victorious campaign in the CONCACAF W Gold Cup, netting four goals and being named the tournament’s MVP.

“You can observe her dedication and effort, both in her attacking and defensive play. It’s clear that her game has evolved,” Dahlkemper commented. “She consistently demonstrates her scoring abilities for this team, and her impact on the team’s success is undeniable. Not only is she a valuable player currently, but she also has immense potential for the future.”

Shaw’s impressive attacking contribution for the US is a valuable asset as the team gears up for the highly anticipated 2024 Olympics.

Despite not having made her US debut yet when the 2023 Women’s World Cup roster was chosen, Shaw is rapidly proving herself worthy of being considered for the next major tournament roster. However, the selection process is highly competitive.

“The US is incredibly competitive and unique due to the abundance of young and essential players available for the team,” Horan expressed. “It’s going to be challenging and highly competitive, as is often the case.”