Nicole Payne

Nicole Oyeyemisi Payne (born 18 January 2001) is a professional footballer who plays as a defender for the Orlando Pride of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Born in the United States, she represents Nigeria at international level.

Early life Payne was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Her first appearance (of four to date ) for PSG came as a substitute in a 5–2 win over Dijon FCO on 12 November 2023, with her first start on 20 January 2024 in an 8–1 win over FC Girondins de Bordeaux. Five months into her loan, Payne was acquired permanently by the Thorns.

On 16 January 2026, the Orlando Pride announced that they had signed Payne to a one-year contract.

International career Payne was called up to the United States national under-17 team in 2017.

Payne made her senior debut for Nigeria on 10 June 2021 as a 90th-minute substitute in a 0–1 friendly loss to Jamaica.

Payne was called up to the Nigeria squad for the 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

Payne was called up to the Nigeria squad for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Personal life Born in Birmingham, Alabama, to Nigerian parents, Payne is the younger sister of fellow footballers Toni Payne and Stephen Payne. She and her sister Toni have played together in the Nigeria women's national team.