Sophia Smith is in the headlines as the soccer star secured an elite status! She’s become the highest-paid player in the NWSL by inking a lucrative contract extension with the Portland Thorns. While Smith’s faithful celebrate her pledging alliance, an interesting question surfaces as to why her salary remained undisclosed to the public eye, especially during such a grand achievement.

Spotrac writer Taylor Vincent was one individual to quickly break the news regarding Smith’s new deal with Rose City. Interestingly, Vincent was posed with a question on X about why the majority of sports leagues mention contract amounts, whereas the NWSL does not. The writer responded by referencing a rule from the NWSL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which states that the NWSL agrees not to disclose a player’s salary to third parties without prior written consent from the NWSLPA (National Women’s Soccer League Players Association). 

The new deal will keep Smith with the Thorns until the end of the 2025 season, with an option for an additional year. The Thorns’ Head Coach, Mike Norris was all praises for the player. In an official statement, she said, “Soph is a generational talent and we’re excited for the future we’ll build together.” He continued, “She is a proven, world-class talent and one that we are excited to have contribute to the team’s continued success”. Notably, this isn’t the first time the record for the highest-paying cumulative contract has been broken.

This past offseason saw Mallory Swanson of the Chicago Red Stars, Racheal Kundananji of Bay FC, and Barbra Banda of the Orlando Pride all sign multiyear deals valued between $2 million and $2.5 million in total. Additionally, what sets Smith’s new deal apart from others is that she turned down lucrative offers from abroad.

Sophia Smith strongly believes that every player doesn’t need Europe to shine!

Before signing the contract extension, Smith was a free agent and received offers not only from other NWSL clubs but also from clubs in Europe. Speaking to Athletic, she said, “I thought of all the options.” While acknowledging the unique challenges presented by the game in Europe, Smith affirmed her steadfast commitment to the NWSL. “I don’t believe that every player needs to go to Europe to become who they’re supposed to be,” added Smith. 

However, the 23-year-old felt that a lot was left to achieve with Thorns and contribute more to the NWSL. “This league is so good for me. It’s the exact type of style that I like to play and thrive in,” concluded the NWSL MVP and the Golden Boot winner. Certainly, the USWNT starlet buzzes with optimism. While the secrecy surrounding her salary may leave some dissatisfied, Sophia Smith’s continued tenure with the Portland Thorns remains a positive outcome.

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