The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and its players have reached a landmark collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that introduces significant changes, including the elimination of the annual college draft, guarantees for all player contracts, and substantial increases in minimum salaries.
By abolishing the draft and the expansion draft, the NWSL becomes the first major professional sports league in the United States to give players complete autonomy in choosing where they play. This move is seen as a progressive step, empowering athletes to select the team environment that best suits their needs and career aspirations. “The draft is an antiquated model that empowers teams to decide for players instead of players deciding for themselves,” said NWSLPA President Tori Huster. “Now, players can choose the team environment that fits their needs and maximizes their opportunities.”
The new agreement, which extends the current contract with the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA) through 2030, includes a substantial increase in minimum salaries, rising from $48,500 in 2025 to $82,500 by 2030. Additionally, the CBA introduces a base salary cap, starting at $3.3 million in 2025 and increasing to $5.1 million by 2030, with a supplemental cap tied to the previous year’s media and sponsorship revenue. The NWSLPA will have audit rights to ensure compliance with revenue-sharing provisions.
The deal also grants players unrestricted free agency, previously available only after five years in the league, and guarantees all contracts. In line with FIFA transfer rules, the agreement now requires player consent for all trades, giving players greater control over their careers.
The NWSL is experiencing rapid growth, bolstered by a new media rights deal with Scripps Sports, CBS Sports, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video. This season, ION will broadcast 50 matches as part of 25 Saturday doubleheaders, with a 30-minute studio show preceding each event.
In addition to financial and contractual improvements, the CBA emphasizes player well-being by expanding mental health services, introducing workload management standards, and ensuring a minimum 28-day offseason. Teams will also see increased medical and training staff to support these initiatives.
NWSL Chief Sporting Director Tatjana Haenni emphasized the league’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent globally. “Soccer is a uniquely global game with roots in every country, and the new CBA allows us to offer the world’s most elite training and playing environment,” she said.
The CBA also enhances competition bonuses, with nearly all end-of-season awards doubling in value by 2027 and the Most Valuable Player bonus quadrupling.
