USWNT settles equal pay case

U.S. women’s national team players who spent years battling for pay equity lauded as historic an agreement by U.S. Soccer to pay $24 million to settle a discrimination dispute with the team, as well as a commitment to equalize pay and bonuses to match the men’s team.

“I think we’re going to look back on this moment and just think, ‘Wow, what an incredible turning point in the history of U.S. Soccer that changed the game and changed the world, really, forever,’” star midfielder Megan Rapinoe said.

The two sides announced a deal that will have players split $22 million, about one-third of what they had sought in damages. U.S. Soccer also agreed to establish a fund with $2 million to benefit the players in their post-soccer careers and charitable efforts aimed at growing the sport for women.

The proposal went further, with American soccer’s governing body pledging to equalize pay — including World Cup bonuses. It effectively brings to a close the gender discrimination lawsuit players filed in 2019.

WNBA BIRD: 2022 SEASON PROBABLY LAST »

Sue Bird seemed a little uneasy sitting behind a microphone and listening to her coach and general manager shower her with praise.

“I probably could have stayed in the other room for those comments. Gets a little awkward up here listening to people talk about you in that way,” Bird joked.

Bird may need to get used to that kind of attention coming her way from around the WNBA for the upcoming season. She said that all signs are pointing toward the 2022 season being her last with the Seattle Storm, but she does not want the upcoming season to be a farewell tour.