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Record-breaking contract for US forward
Trinity Rodman has signed a three-year extension with Washington Spirit, making her the world's highest-paid female footballer. The 23-year-old forward's new deal is reportedly worth $2 million annually, including bonuses, her agent confirmed on Friday.
Deal ends free agency uncertainty
Rodman had been a free agent since her previous contract with Spirit expired on December 31. The agreement keeps her with the NWSL club through 2028, ending speculation about a potential move to European clubs like Chelsea.
"It feels amazing. I'm very happy. I'm very blessed. I think it's a monumental and game-changing moment right now."
Trinity Rodman
NWSL's new rule enables record salary
The National Women's Soccer League implemented a 'High Impact Player' rule in December, allowing teams to exceed the $3.5 million salary cap by up to $1 million for qualifying players. Spirit owner Michele Kang called Rodman "a generational player" who represents "the future of this club and women's soccer."
Rodman's career highlights
The daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman has been a standout performer since joining Spirit in 2021. She won the NWSL Rookie of the Year award in her debut season and helped the team capture the championship. For the US national team, she has scored 11 goals in 47 appearances, including three at the 2024 Paris Olympics where the US won gold.
Global competition for top talent
The NWSL has faced increasing competition from European leagues, with recent high-profile transfers including Naomi Girma and Alyssa Thompson to Chelsea, and Sam Coffey to Manchester City. While Barcelona's Aitana Bonmatí previously held the top salary record, financial constraints at the Spanish club contrast with the aggressive spending of owners like Kang, who also controls Lyon and London City Lionesses.
What's next
Rodman's record contract signals a new era in women's football salaries, with global competition for elite players driving wages higher across multiple leagues.
