Women's football growth

Women's football is expected to become a billion-dollar industry by 2027.

Financial struggles

59% of players cited financial reasons for leaving football early, while 46% reported psychological stress.

Mental health crisis

57% of women players struggle with mental health, half receive no club support.

Wage disparities

Players earn less than £15,000 annually, with regional pay gaps from $480 in Africa to $6,450 in North America.

Contract insecurity

Only two-thirds of players receive full annual pay, with 24% facing late payments and 42% lacking pensions.

Player identity

62% of players see themselves as professional, yet 78% have written contracts and 82% are paid by clubs.

Wage growth gaps

Mean monthly earnings tripled since 2017 to $2,601, but median pay remains $1,669.

Regional pay gaps

Players in North America earn $6,450 monthly, while those in Africa earn just $480.

Short-term contracts

24% of players faced late payments, 42% lack pensions, and contracts average 19 months.

Player welfare concerns

Fifpro warns the economic boom could mask daily realities for players.

“Culvin warned the economic boom in women's football could 'mask some of the realities that players face and actually endure on a day-to-day basis'.”

Positive shift

Maternity regulations reduced early retirement due to family to 19% from 50%.

Future outlook

Fifpro urges commercial growth and player welfare to develop together.

“What we're saying is enough is enough and the industry needs to react to the players' needs and centralise the players' voice, ensure that players have a seat at the table when decisions that affect them are being made about them.”