NWSL drops controversial criteria around ‘Rodman Rule’ in settlement with NWSLPA
The NWSL and the NWSLPA have reached a settlement to remove restrictive eligibility criteria for the 'High Impact Player' salary rule. Starting in 2027, clubs can designate any player as a High Impact Player provided they meet specific salary thresholds.
Why it matters
This settlement marks a significant victory for player labor unions in professional sports, ensuring greater flexibility and earning potential for athletes.
Trinity Rodman became the first player to sign under the NWSL’s High Impact Player mechanism earlier this year. Photograph: Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn Images/Reuters Trinity Rodman became the first player to sign under the NWSL’s High Impact Player mechanism earlier this year. Photograph: Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn Images/Reuters NWSL NWSL drops controversial criteria around ‘Rodman Rule’ in settlement with NWSLPA Any player will be eligible for High Impact Player status
Requirements had included top 100, marketability lists
Sides also resolve grievance on Rodman contract refusal
Prefer the Guardian on Google The NWSL and the NWSL Players Association have reached a settlement to drop the restrictive criteria around the controversial High Impact Player (HIP) rule, allowing any player to earn the league’s highest salaries.
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