While soccer has long been dominated by male players, the scene is rapidly changing as female soccer players are making significant progress both on and off the field.
In recent decades, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of women refining their skills and earning impressive salaries within the sport.
This shift is visible in the growing prominence of female soccer players who earn substantial incomes, rivalling those of their male counterparts.
These athletes not only excel in their on-field performances but also leverage their talent, charm, and marketability to secure lucrative endorsement deals and sponsorships.
The surge in female soccer is fueled by increased investment, improved infrastructure, and a growing global interest in the women’s game.
Major tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup have garnered widespread attention, showcasing the exceptional talent and athleticism of female footballers on a global scale.
In recent years, several female soccer players have emerged as the highest-paid in the sport, earning multi-million dollar contracts from both their clubs and endorsement partners.
These top earners are not only setting new standards for compensation in women’s soccer but also inspiring future generations of female athletes to pursue their dreams and shatter barriers in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field.
Here are 10 of the highest paid female soccer players
1. Alex Morgan – San Diego Wave
- Total Wage: $7.1 million
Alex Morgan commands an impressive income of $7.1 million, solidifying her position among the elite echelons of female soccer earners worldwide.
The lion’s share of her earnings, totalling $6.3 million, stems from endorsements, underscoring her influence transcending the sport.
Complementing this substantial figure is her on-field salary of $0.8 million, indicative of both her playing prowess and the team’s investment in her talent. Morgan’s journey epitomizes determination and resilience, a testament to the fruits of hard work.
Her extensive collaboration portfolio features renowned brands such as Hublot, BODYARMOR, and Anheuser-Busch, underscoring the substantial rewards that accompany success and fame.
Recognized as one of the Times 100 Most Influential People in both 2019 and 2022, Morgan’s impact extends far beyond the field. Her contributions were pivotal in the USNWT’s FIFA Women’s World Cup triumphs in 2015 and 2019.
Moreover, as part of the Lyon Féminin squad, Morgan played a crucial role in clinching the UEFA Women’s Champions League, the League, and the historic Coupe de France Féminin in 2017.
2. Alexia Putellas – Barcelona
- Total Wage: $4 million
Alexia Putellas commands an impressive annual wage of $4 million, firmly establishing her as a prominent figure among the highest-paid female soccer players.
Recognized for her significant impact both within and beyond the confines of the field, Putellas’ earnings are a culmination of a $0.8 million on-field salary supplemented by lucrative endorsements totalling $3.2 million.
Affectionately dubbed “La Reina” (The Queen) by fans and media alike, Alexia Putellas holds a revered status as one of the most influential soccer players globally. Praised for her exceptional leadership qualities, she has earned the captaincy roles for both her club and her national team.
In addition to her on-field prowess, Putellas garners equal acclaim for her advocacy for gender equality in sports.
Leveraging her platform, she actively encourages awareness and champions constructive change within the industry. Her endeavours have been recognized with the production of a dedicated docuseries on Amazon Prime Video, offering insight into her remarkable journey.
With her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to making a difference both on and off the field, it comes as no surprise that Putellas commands a substantial annual salary of $4 million.
3. Trinity Rodman – Washington Spirit
- Total Wage: $2.3 million
Trinity Rodman, hailed as one of the burgeoning talents in women’s soccer, commands an impressive total annual income of $2.3 million. Her on-field earnings of $0.8 million are complemented by endorsements worth $1.5 million, indicating a promising trajectory for her career.
At just 18 years old, Rodman holds the record of being the youngest player on the list with such substantial earnings.
Her soccer journey began at the age of four, and in 2021, she made history as the youngest player ever drafted in NWSL history when the Washington Spirit selected her.
Rodman’s accolades include winning both US Soccer’s Young Female Player of the Year and the NWSL Rookie of the Year awards after an exceptional debut season. Her lineage, as the daughter of NBA icon Dennis Rodman, adds to her allure, granting her significant off-field star power.
Blessed with her father’s charisma and athleticism, Rodman’s marketability is poised to soar, likely propelling her to become the highest-paid female soccer player shortly.
4. Crystal Dunn – Gotham
- Total Wage: $2 million
Renowned for her versatility and exceptional skill, Crystal Dunn has solidified her position among the elite in women’s soccer.
With a total annual income of $2 million, comprising a $0.7 million on-field salary and $1.3 million in endorsements, Dunn continues to excel both domestically and internationally.
A notable attribute of Dunn is her ability to seamlessly transition between midfield and defence, proving her adaptability on the field.
Dunn’s soccer journey began with the North Carolina Tar Heels, where she made a remarkable collegiate debut and was honoured with the prestigious Herman Trophy as the conference’s top player.
In 2015, at just 23 years old, Dunn made history by becoming the youngest recipient of both the NWSL MVP and Golden Boot awards, achievements earned during her debut professional season with the Washington Spirit.
Currently playing for the Portland Thorns, Dunn’s income stems from a combination of sponsorship deals and her salary as a player, totalling $2 million annually.
Her consistent performance and versatility ensure her continued prominence in women’s soccer.
5. Sophia Smith – Portland Thorns
- Total Wage: $2 million
Sharing the spotlight with Crystal Dunn is Sophia Smith, a standout player for the Portland Thorns. Smith’s impressive career is buoyed by a total annual income of $1.8 million, consisting of an on-field wage of $0.8 million and endorsements totalling $1 million.
Youthful and dynamic, She has quickly emerged as one of the leading figures in women’s soccer, garnering acclaim not only for her on-field prowess but also for her marketability off the field.
Her achievements include being named the Most Outstanding Offensive Player of the 2019 College Cup tournament while representing Stanford Cardinal during her collegiate career.
Selected as the first pick by the Portland Thorns FC in the 2020 NWSL College Draft, Smith’s trajectory continued to soar. Her standout performance in the 2022 NWSL championship led to her being crowned the league’s MVP.
With endorsements from prominent brands like Nike, Ally Financial, and Hyperice, Smith’s off-field earnings bolster her status as one of the highest paid female soccer players as of 2024.
At just 21 years old, she stands as the second-youngest player on the list of top earners, showcasing the bright future ahead for this rising star.
6. Lindsey Horan – Lyon
- Total Wage: $1.5 million
A formidable presence both on and off the soccer field, she commands a total annual income of $1.5 million, comprised of a $0.9 million on-field salary and $0.6 million in endorsements.
Horan’s journey to prominence began with ESPN recognizing her as the top prospect in college soccer, paving the way for a groundbreaking six-figure contract with Paris Saint-Germain Féminin.
During her time in France, she established herself as a prolific scorer, leaving a lasting impact before transitioning to the Portland Thorns in the NWSL, where she earned the coveted MVP title and helped secure the 2017 championship.
Her success wasn’t limited to club football; Horan’s leadership shone as she captained Team USA during the 2018 Women’s World Cup, leaving her mark with a goal in the opening match against Vietnam and contributing significantly throughout the tournament, including in the final against the Netherlands.
Horan’s talents caught the attention of European giants, leading to a record-breaking transfer to Lyon Féminin for $265,000, making her the most expensive player in the USWNT.
At Lyon, she continues to excel, earning $900,000 annually, while her off-field ventures, including partnerships with Microsoft’s Xbox and Cheribundi, add another $1.5 million to her income.
Horan’s remarkable success both on and off the field solidifies her status as one of the most influential figures in women’s soccer worldwide.
7. Rose Lavelle – Gotham
- Total Wage: $1.4 million
Lavelle has made her mark as a prominent figure with Gotham FC, boasting an impressive total annual income of $1.4 million. This includes $0.8 million from her on-field wage and an additional $0.6 million from endorsement deals.
Lavelle’s exceptional skills as a midfielder have been crucial to Gotham’s success, as well as her contributions to the US national women’s team’s triumph in the 2019 Women’s World Cup in Canada.
Throughout the tournament, she showed her ability by scoring three pivotal goals, including one in the championship match against the Netherlands, earning her the prestigious Bronze Ball award as the third-best player in the competition.
Her stellar performances have earned her widespread recognition, including features on the cover of Sports Illustrated in June 2023 and appearances in various Visa television advertisements.
Off the field, Lavelle’s influence extends through endorsement deals with renowned brands like Nike, Icy Hot, and Chipotle, solidifying her status not only as a top athlete but also as a highly marketable personality in women’s soccer.
8. Sofia Huerta – Seattle Reign
- Total Wage: $1.3 million
Sofia Huerta’s consistent performances have established her as a key figure in women’s soccer. With endorsements valued at $0.5 million, complementing her $0.8 million on-field wage, Huerta’s impact is evident both on and off the field.
An American soccer player of Mexican heritage, Huerta currently represents both the US women’s national team and Reign FC in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Her journey began as a Bronco at Santa Clara University, where her exceptional skills drew the attention of scouts from professional teams across the country.
Known for her inventive style of play and aggressive approach, Huerta quickly rose through the ranks and made her professional debut with the Chicago Red Stars in 2015.
Before committing to the US national women’s team, Huerta had represented Mexico at various levels, earning her first cap in 2017.
Huerta has cultivated partnerships with brands such as Siete Foods and Lotto Sports, proving her influence both within the sport and in the world of endorsements.
9. Ada Hegerberg – Lyon
- Total Wage: $1.2 million
Ada Hegerberg’s impact on the soccer world is unmatched, evident in her impressive total wage of $1.2 million.
Both her endorsements and on-field earnings stand at $0.6 million, reflecting the widespread recognition of her contributions to the sport.
Originating from Norway, Hegerberg is a lethal striker known for her exceptional goal-scoring prowess. Her journey began in her homeland, where she set records as the top scorer for Sunndal in 2011 at the age of just 16, before joining the professional ranks with Kolbotn.
Upon moving to Lyon, France, Hegerberg’s career soared to new heights.
She has since accumulated numerous titles and accolades, including being honoured as the inaugural recipient of the Ballon d’Or Féminin.
While her on-field success is undeniable, Hegerberg’s off-field ventures have also been lucrative.
With endorsements from renowned brands like Hublot, MasterCard, and Nike, she has further solidified her financial standing and global influence, inspiring soccer enthusiasts around the world with her remarkable talent and achievements.
10. Chloe Kelly – Man City
- Total Wage: $1.2 million
Chloe Kelly, representing Manchester City, secures her place in the top 10 with a total wage of $1.2 million.
With endorsements amounting to $0.8 million and an on-field wage of $0.4 million, Kelly’s ascent in the world of women’s soccer exemplifies her remarkable talent and unwavering dedication.
Despite her relatively modest on-field wage compared to some counterparts, Kelly’s rise underscores her commitment to excellence and the recognition she commands both on and off the pitch.
As a rising star in the sport, Kelly’s journey serves as evidence t to the opportunities available for dedicated athletes in women’s soccer.
With her impressive earnings and continued growth, she is poised to make an even greater impact on the sport in the years to come, inspiring future generations of players along the way.
Highest Paid Female Soccer Players in the World 2024
| Rank | Player | Club | On-Field Wage | Off-Field Wage | Total Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alex Morgan | San Diego Wave | $0.8m | $6.3m | $7.1m |
| 2 | Alexia Putellas | Barcelona | $0.8m | $3.2m | $4m |
| 3 | Trinity Rodman | Washington Spirit | $0.8m | $1.5m | $2.3m |
| 4 | Crystal Dunn | Gotham | $0.7m | $1.3m | $2m |
| = | Sophia Smith | Portland Thorns | $0.8m | $1m | $2m |
| 6 | Lindsey Horan | Lyon | $0.9m | $0.6m | $1.5m |
| 7 | Rose Lavelle | Gotham | $0.8m | $0.6m | $1.4m |
| 8 | Sofia Huerta | Seattle Reign | $0.8m | $0.5m | $1.3m |
| 9 | Ada Hegerberg | Lyon | $0.6m | $0.6m | $1.2m |
| 10 | Chloe Kelly | Man City | $0.4m | $0.8m | $1.2m |
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