Change is the only constant for the National Women’s Soccer League. Over the years, this American female domestic tournament has witnessed a remarkable surge in all aspects. Be it securing a $240 million broadcasting rights deal or the growth of star-studded teams, the level is all about onwards and upwards. So it would be natural to see renowned stars get a significant paycheck. That only calls us to draw up the list of highest-paid NWSL players in 2024. From Sophia Smith to the evergreen Marta, who pockets more?

Sophia Smith

Topping the list of highest-paid NWSL players is a name that needs no introduction—Sophia Smith. A key figure in her nation’s gold medal triumph at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Smith recently inked a landmark deal with the Portland Thorns. According to reports, she earns more than $500,000, marking a historic milestone in NWSL history.

Considering the potential that Sophia possesses, we wouldn’t be surprised to see her contend for the top spot on this list for years even if another rival player earns a big fat paycheck from their team.

Maria Sanchez

Technically, before Sophia Smith, it was Maria Sanchez who set a record in the NWSL with a groundbreaking deal from the Houston Dash, reportedly close to $500,000 annually. This places the 27-year-old Mexican forward on par with the USWNT star on this list. Last year, Sanchez signed a record-breaking three-year contract worth $1.5 million. However, after her move to San Diego Wave FC this summer, it remains unclear if she will continue to earn the same amount with her new team.

Crystal Dunn

A three-time NWSL champion, two-time Olympian, and World Cup Champion, the name Crystal Dunn speaks for itself. It was just the last year when the defender earned herself a multi-year deal with Gotham FC until 2026. As per the reports, Dunn earns somewhere around $400K, even though a similar offer was given from the likes of Orlando Pride and Washington Spirit.

Marta

Age is just a number for Marta, as the Brazilian veteran continues to push forward. While she announced her retirement at the end of the season—at least on the international stage, following a loss to the USWNT in the 2024 Paris Olympic final—she shows no signs of slowing down domestically. Recently, she helped her team win both the NWSL Shield and Championship. For her contributions, Orlando Pride reportedly pays Marta around $400K.

Mallory Swanson

Another NWSL and USWNT superstar, Mallory Swanson doesn’t need an introduction. The forward has proved to be a crucial chess piece not just on the international front but even on the domestic side. That’s why, Chicago Red Stars, now called Chicago Stars, pay Swanson a little around $400K. This figure makes her tie not only with Marta, but other renowned names in NWSL including fellow national teammate and Gotham FC defender Crystal Dunn and Portland Thorns goalie Nadine Angerer.

Christine Sinclair

While the 41-year-old may have called it quits for the Canadian National Team, Sinclair continues to do her most for the Portland Thorns. That sees her pocket a little over $360K per annum. Considering she has just years left to display her best on the pitch, we ought to praise the Cannucks icon for earning such a significant amount, surpassing even what many renowned youngsters aren’t earning today’s date!

Trinity Rodman

Yes, surprising as it may look but your favorite sensation in the women’s game takes the tenth spot on the highest-paid female footballers in the world list. Having secured a starring role at both the USWNT and Washington Spirit, Rodman penned a record deal at that time. This makes her earn around $281,000 per annum. Then again, if you add her off-pitch earnings, the daughter of Dennis Rodman is surely overshadowing many big names in women’s soccer.

Rose Lavelle

Another significant name in the NWSL, Rose Lavelle’s impact has been truly remarkable. Ever since ending her 2-year stint with OL Reign earlier this summer, the sought-after midfielder has been doing just fine at Gotham FC. No wonder the New York-based club has been paying Lavelle nearly $400K, as she penned a 3-year deal.

Racheal Kundananji

At the beginning of this year, Bay FC secured the signing of Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji from Madrid CFF, reportedly setting a record in women’s soccer with a deal valued at €735,000, or nearly $800,000. The 23-year-old striker signed a contract with the NWSL club through 2027, with an option to extend until 2028. While the hefty transfer fee would suggest she earns significantly, that isn’t the case as Kundananji earns a little over $262.3K per annum.