National Women’s Soccer League, NWSL Players Association and Trinity Rodman
23 October 2026
The NWSL and its players’ union have agreed to remove eligibility restrictions from the league’s High Impact Player salary rule. Beginning 1 January 2027, any qualifying player can receive higher compensation, replacing a system previously limited to approximately 100 designated stars.
The settlement resolves several grievances, including a dispute involving the Washington Spirit’s proposed contract for Trinity Rodman. Players earning at least 12% of the base salary cap will qualify for High Impact Player status, potentially allowing seven-figure salaries. The agreement also requires improved financial transparency, annual salary-cap projections and protection for existing individual footwear sponsorship arrangements.
Why It Matters
More NWSL players can negotiate higher salaries without meeting restrictive star-player criteria.