FIFPRO Report Highlights Financial and Mental Health Challenges for Women's Football Players

The report shows that while the average inflation-adjusted monthly salary for women players has tripled since 2017, reaching $2,601, the median monthly salary remains lower at $1,669. This disparity highlights an uneven economic landscape in women's football where many players are struggling without appropriate support. Notably, in regions like Western Europe and Asia/Oceania, salaries do not exceed minimum wage levels.

In the survey, nearly 49 percent of respondents expressed thoughts of leaving the sport early, with 59 percent citing financial difficulties and 46 percent indicating psychological stress. Dr. Alex Culvin, FIFPRO Director of Women’s Football, commented on the findings, emphasizing that, despite accelerated professionalization in certain areas, the benefits are not uniformly experienced. He pointed out that away from well-resourced clubs, many players face precarious working conditions.

To address these issues, Dr. Culvin called for greater collaboration among competition organizers and player unions to establish standards that protect players and promote sustainable careers. He advocated for enforceable minimum standards in employment contracts at the national level, covering pay, facilities, staffing, and health.

The report highlights that only eight out of 30 national women’s leagues have collective agreements in place regarding employment conditions. FIFPRO also advocates for mandatory psychological support for players, similar to practices in the NWSL, where mental health professionals work with club staff, alongside a guaranteed six months of mental health leave. Alarmingly, 57 percent of surveyed players reported mental health struggles, with half receiving no support from their clubs.

The report also tracks changes in maternity regulations that offer protections for players during pregnancy or parental leave, a significant development since FIFA adopted new rules in 2021. Since 2017, the percentage of players considering leaving for family reasons dropped from 47 percent to 19 percent.

Furthermore, while salaries have seen considerable growth in leagues like those in the USA and Mexico, many players in Eastern Europe still earn below the national minimum wage. The average contract length has increased to 19 months from 12, and now, 41 percent of players have agents, up from 14 percent in 2017.

The report indicates significant shortcomings in professional women’s football, as only 56 percent of players have employment contracts, and 47 percent report insufficient club staffing. Many players criticized the lack of experience and qualifications of support staff, with only 13 percent receiving pension benefits. Dr. Culvin concluded that the availability of basic resources and protections varies greatly based on geographical location and the club in which a player is employed.