The Washington Spirit made headlines with Trinity Rodman’s new contract, which marks a significant shift in women’s soccer. According to ESPN’s Jeff Kassouf, Rodman signed a three-year deal worth over $1 million annually, making her the highest-paid female soccer player in the world.
Rodman’s journey to this contract has been quite eventful. After her old contract ended on December 31, there were speculations about her future. Reports surfaced in November indicating that she was in talks with multiple clubs in the English Women’s Super League as she searched for a new deal. Despite these rumors, she remains committed to the Spirit.
Rodman expressed her happiness about the deal, stating, “I feel amazing, very blessed.” She sees this contract as game-changing, opening doors for young women with dreams in soccer. “I’ve always had a vision of what I want my legacy to be, and I think this is a step in that direction,” she said.
Her impact on the team and the league is undeniable. Rodman played a vital role in the United States’ gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics. While she faced challenges last season, suffering from a sprained MCL that limited her to 17 appearances, she still managed to score five goals and provide two assists.
This new contract comes at a time when the NWSL is growing rapidly. The league’s salary cap is set at $3.5 million per team for 2026, with plans to increase it to $5.1 million by 2030. This growth may encourage more investments in women’s soccer and attract more talent.
Rodman’s deal is not just about money; it symbolizes progress in women’s sports. With more visibility and financial support, the landscape of women’s soccer is changing, paving the way for future stars.
For those interested in further understanding the dynamics of women’s sports and contracts, a report by the National Women’s Law Center highlights the ongoing disparities in funding and support compared to male counterparts. Understanding these challenges is crucial as we celebrate milestones like Rodman’s.
The 2026 NWSL season kicks off on March 13, and all eyes will be on how Rodman and the Spirit make their mark.
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