The issue of equal pay for equal work performed has long been a contention in which women receive less compensation than men for performing the same work. The US Women’s Soccer teams are looking to create equal rights and opportunity to that of the national men’s team by fighting for equal pay. 

This is not a new issue; women are often under-paid and under-recognized for the work they do in sport despite having to work just as hard or harder for the same opportunities. The future of US National Soccer is moving towards a single pay structure for all athletes. In May of 2020 the ruling for their pay claim was rejected; however, it has been recently overruled by the 9^th Circuit bringing the trial back on track.   

While the gender pay gap is prevalent in most aspects of working America, athletes began arguing for equal pay by posting and sharing their stories via social media. The soccer players led by Alex Morgan and other female athletes began speaking up at media sessions and sharing their thoughts, which helped shed light on the issue to a wider range of people. These athletes are so well known and recognized widely. When they speak up about a cause or an issue it often influences change and can lead to important societal discussion.  

Although there has been great improvement in gender equality there is still room for growth. The women’s world of sport needs the continued advocacy to break social barriers and continue to strive for equality. The peer-reviewed article shares that the lived experiences of women athletes in Australia is the same as that is occurring across the world; this is not a new issue and continues to impact this demographic.  

The US soccer teams efforts are a huge step for women in sport, but female athletes look forward to the day that equality is no longer questioned and is just expected.

MadsL29 

Featured Image: US Womens team Celebrating their 4-3 Win to Land them Bronze Medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics amidst their trial continuation (Source: Team USA)