In a groundbreaking move for professional sports in the United States, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the NWSL Players Association have agreed to eliminate the draft and introduce full free agency for all players. This unprecedented decision is part of a newly extended collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that will run through 2030, providing players with greater control over their careers and aligning the league more closely with global soccer standards.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman emphasized the importance of this move in a competitive global market for soccer talent. “Unlike other sports, we compete in a global labor market. To attract and retain the best players, we believe eliminating the draft and providing free agency puts us on an even playing field with leagues around the world,” Berman explained.
The new CBA includes substantial improvements to player compensation, with the league minimum salary set to rise from $48,500 in 2025 to $82,500 by 2030. Additionally, the salary cap for each team will increase from $3.3 million in 2025 to $5.1 million by 2030, though individual player salaries will no longer have a set limit, giving teams more flexibility in allocating funds.
A key component of the agreement is a revenue-sharing model that allows for potential increases in the salary cap based on the league’s financial performance. This model ensures that players can directly benefit from the league’s growth through sponsorships and media deals, creating a shared interest in the success of the NWSL.
The league’s recent growth has been remarkable, highlighted by a surge in attendance, viewership, and team valuations. Angel City FC, a team that recently attracted investment from Disney CEO Bob Iger and journalist Willow Bay, was valued at $250 million, making it the most valuable women’s sports team globally. Furthermore, the NWSL secured a $240 million media deal last November, significantly boosting its financial standing.
In light of this growth, the NWSL proactively renegotiated its CBA with the Players Association two years ahead of schedule. This early negotiation was intended to provide stability and confidence for future investors and partners, ensuring there are no concerns about labor disputes in the near future. Berman noted, “We believe this next phase of growth will unlock significant investment and resources, propelling the league to new heights.”
This landmark agreement positions the NWSL as a leader in women’s sports, setting a new standard for player rights and league operations while paving the way for continued expansion and investment in women’s soccer.
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