Rodman’s record contract is good news for NWSL— even as questions remain – Equalizer Soccer

Jan 22, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; (from left to right) Washington Spirit president of soccer operations Haley Carter and Trinity Rodman and team owner Michele Kang and chief executive officer Kim Stone pose for a photo during a press conference at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

The National Women’s Soccer League is keeping its brightest star within its orbit. 

Trinity Rodman officially inked a three-year contract extension with the Washington Spirit, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty over her free agency. 

ESPN’s Jeff Kassouf (and founder of The Equalizer) reports that the 23-year-old will be making upwards of $1 million annually, making her the highest paid female player in the world.

Rodman once again raises the high watermark for NWSL salaries, just as she did one year after her breakout Rookie of the Year season. In February 2022, she signed a record-breaking four-year deal worth $1.1 million. At the time, the Spirit were stuck in a heated ownership dispute. The league requested former owner Steve Baldwin sell the team on the back of an investigation into allegations of abuse by then-head coach Richie Burke. Billionaire businesswoman Michele Kang (who was then a minority owner) eventually became controlling owner.