There’s a new highest-paid player in women’s soccer. It’s Trinity Rodman, the Washington Spirit star—and she’s staying in the National Women’s Soccer League.
This is a “monumental and game-changing moment” for the sport, Rodman said of her deal—worth around $2 million a year through 2028. It’s also a game-changing moment for the business of women’s soccer in the U.S.
The National Women’s Soccer League is only 13 years old. Women’s professional leagues have come and gone in the U.S., compared to Europe and globally where soccer is a much more established sport. Top-tier players have often left the U.S. to play abroad, where they can earn significantly bigger salaries (the previous top-paid player was in Barcelona). Depending on the player, however, it can be a trade-off with the brand opportunities in the U.S. market. Meanwhile, American soccer has struggled with pay equity and the U.S. Women’s National Team’s famous lawsuit.
The NWSL spent the past few months figuring out how to keep Rodman in the league. The Washington Spirit, which is owned by billionaire Michele Kang, wanted to keep her. But they weren’t allowed to throw money at Rodman, due to the league’s salary cap rules. After months of back-and-forth, the league debuted a new “high-impact player” rule that allowed teams to pay extra for star players, determined by both on-field ability and commercial potential. There’s still some uncertainty regarding this rule; the players’ union has objected to it, saying it was not negotiated and violated their collective-bargaining agreement. ESPN reports that while the rule’s ultimate form is still up in the air, Rodman’s contract is still a contract and will be honored.
In many ways, it’s been a challenging year for women’s sports. Hyper-growth comes with growing pains; cracks in the foundation appear. The WNBA is currently operating without a contract with its players, who demand a greater share of the league’s revenue. Its 30th season is set to kick off in May—if both sides can come to an agreement in time.
While we wait for a resolution that will support the continued growth of women’s basketball, in women’s soccer Rodman’s contract can set a new standard. If the investors who see so much financial potential for women’s sports want to realize those outcomes, they’ll need the best players in the world. For now, the NWSL has figured out how to hold onto its best. That’s not just good for Rodman—it’s good for the players who come after her and for every stakeholder who wants to see this sport thrive.
Emma Hinchliffe
emma.hinchliffe@fortune.com
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