The 22-year-old striker was named runner-up on Thursday with Japan's Hana Takahashi named Asian player of the year at a gala ceremony in Riyadh.
It is a remarkable feat for McNamara, who despite her tender age has fought back from three ACL injuries in six years.
McNamara has been outstanding for Melbourne City in A-League Women which earned her a call-up to the national team.
There she has shown her talents and a bright future awaits provided she stays injury free.
Defender Takahashi took the title ahead of McNamara and China's Wang Shuang, becoming the sixth different Japanese player to win since China's Sun Wen won the inaugural award in 1999.
"I'm deeply honoured to win this award," said Takahashi in a video message. "With the Women's Asian Cup coming up next year, my immediate focus is to work hard to earn selection for the Japan women's national team.
"I aim to deliver strong results for both the national team and my club, striving to help elevate women's football across Asia."
Saudi Arabia's Salem Al-Dawsari was named Asian men's player of the year for the second time.
Al-Dawsari, who helped his nation secure qualification for a third consecutive World Cup on Tuesday, reclaimed the award he previously won in 2022 ahead of fellow nominees Akram Afif of Qatar and Malaysia's Arif Aiman.
"I'm grateful to win this award," said the Al-Hilal playmaker. Winning it for a second time is special because it came after a huge effort.
"Winning titles with my team is better than winning individual awards, but this award is special because it complements our team's achievements.
"I'm grateful for the support I have received from everyone, the fans, my colleagues in the national team and at my club. This award is for them."
Al-Dawsari's win is the seventh time a player from Saudi Arabia has taken the trophy since compatriot Saeed Al-Owairan won the inaugural award in 1994.
North Korea's Ri Song Ho won coach of the year for leading his country to the U-20 women's World Cup title in Colombia last year.
Paris St Germain's South Korean playmaker Lee Kang-in was named international player of the year with Chelsea's Maika Hamano of Japan winning the women's award.
with Reuters
18°C