NWSL establishes $5 million fund to compensate players in abuse settlement
The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has agreed to a $5 million settlement to compensate players who experienced abuse. This follows investigations by the attorneys general of D.C., Illinois, and New York into systemic abuse and violations of human rights laws. The settlement includes the establishment of a player compensation fund and oversight by the attorneys general for the next three years. The NWSL must submit compliance reports every six months and implement new safety policies. This agreement marks a significant shift in how player abuse claims are handled, with state AGs now involved in oversight, unlike previous cases that were managed through civil complaints. The NWSL must also consult the players' association during head coach hiring processes to ensure player safety.