The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has reached a historic settlement that establishes a $5 million fund for players who experienced abuse and implements crucial reforms following a series of allegations that surfaced in 2021. This resolution comes after a lengthy investigation led by attorneys general from New York, Illinois, and Washington, D.C., which revealed a pervasive culture of misconduct within the league.

The settlement, announced on February 5, 2025, aims to compensate players harmed by abuse or harassment from coaches and officials in positions of power. New York Attorney General Letitia James stated, “Today’s settlement sends a clear message that such misconduct will not be tolerated and ensures players receive the compensation and protections they deserve.” During the investigations, it was found that coaches previously terminated for misconduct were rehired by other teams without sufficient background checks.

The attorneys general's investigation revealed systemic issues within the NWSL, leading to previous investigations that substantiated numerous allegations of emotional and sexual abuse. Notably, former players Sinead Farrelly and Mana Shim were among those who publicly shared their experiences, prompting widespread reform calls in the league.

Apart from the compensation fund, the settlement mandates that the NWSL implement various reforms to enhance player safety. These include rigorous vetting processes for coaches, regular training for staff on preventing sexual misconduct, and the establishment of confidential channels for reporting abuse. The NWSL will report its progress on these reforms to the attorneys general every six months over the next three years. “No dollar amount could ever fully address the damage that was inflicted, but now my office will have oversight authority to ensure that the league's new safety policies are implemented,” emphasized D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb.

The fallout from the 2021 allegations led to the dismissal of multiple coaches and executives within the league, along with significant leadership changes. The former commissioner, Lisa Baird, resigned under pressure in response to the scandal, marking a pivotal moment for league governance and accountability.

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman expressed gratitude to those who spoke out, noting that their courage was essential in prompting much-needed reforms. “We will continue to work necessary to maintain the trust of our players and build an ecosystem where the best in the world want to come,” she stated, highlighting the NWSL’s commitment to safeguarding its athletes.Source

This settlement is seen as a significant step not only for the NWSL but also as a broader precedent for women's sports, emphasizing the necessity of accountability and a commitment to a safe environment for all athletes.

For further details, see the full coverage from Reuters.