In a landmark move, Trinity Rodman, the 23-year-old forward for Washington Spirit, has become the highest-paid female footballer in the world. According to her agent, Mike Senkowski, Rodman has signed a three-year deal worth a reported $2 million (£1.5 million) per year, including bonuses, keeping her with the Spirit until 2028.
This deal marks a significant milestone for women’s football, reflecting the growing recognition and value of top female players. Rodman, the daughter of former NBA star Dennis Rodman, has been a key player for the Spirit since being drafted in 2021, helping the team win the NWSL Championship in her debut season and being named the NWSL Rookie of the Year.
“It feels amazing. I’m very happy. I’m very blessed,” Rodman said. “I think it’s a monumental and game-changing moment right now. I can’t even describe in words what it feels like.”
The new contract surpasses the reported earnings of Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati, the three-time Ballon d’Or winner, who was previously considered the highest-earning female player. The deal also highlights the NWSL’s efforts to retain its top talent, with the league’s board of governors approving a new “High Impact Player” rule in December, allowing teams to spend up to $1 million (£760,000) over the salary cap on players who meet certain criteria.
“Trinity is a generational player, but more importantly, she represents the future of this club and the future of women’s soccer,” said Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang.
Rodman’s success on the international stage has also contributed to her meteoric rise. She has earned 47 caps for the United States national team, scoring 11 goals since her debut in 2022. She was also a key member of the U.S. team that won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she scored three goals.
The news of Rodman’s record-breaking deal has sent shockwaves through the women’s football landscape, with top European clubs, such as Chelsea, closely monitoring her situation. The NWSL has led the way in women’s football for many years, but the growing investment and spending power of leagues like the Women’s Super League and Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil are posing a significant challenge.
As the global women’s football landscape continues to evolve, the Rodman deal serves as a testament to the increasing value and recognition of the sport’s top talents. This landmark agreement is set to have a ripple effect, potentially driving up salaries and elevating the profile of women’s football worldwide.
