NWSL’s Record-Breaking Season, Star Performances, and the Push for Better Protocols
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has emerged as a beacon of growth and resilience in the realm of global professional women’s sports. As the league navigates its lucky 13th season in 2025, it continues to break records, expand its reach, and address challenges head-on.
Looking Back Quickly
Established in November 2012, the NWSL commenced play in April 2013 with eight founding teams, including the Boston Breakers, Chicago Red Stars, and Portland Thorns FC. It succeeded two previous women’s professional soccer leagues in the U.S.: the Women’s United Soccer Association (2001–2003) and Women’s Professional Soccer (2009–2012). Over the years, the NWSL has demonstrated remarkable stability and growth, expanding to 14 teams by 2024, with plans to reach 16 teams by 2026.
READ: NWSL Leadership Through the Years: From Founding to Future 
NWSL’s Record-Breaking Growth
The 2024 season marked a significant milestone, with the league surpassing two million in total attendance—a first in its history.
The Chicago Red Stars set a single-match attendance record by drawing 35,038 fans at Wrigley Field . This upward trajectory continues in 2025, with average attendances exceeding 10,000 per game – a major milestone demonstrating the growth in the women’s game, and sponsors and the media are paying attention.
Media exposure has also amplified, thanks to a multi-year broadcasting deal valued at approximately $60 million per season. This agreement includes partnerships with CBS Sports, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and Scripps Sports, ensuring extensive coverage across various platforms.
NWSL Update: On-Field Highlights
Christen Press is Back
Christen Press has officially returned to Angel City FC’s starting lineup. On May 17, 2025, she was named in the starting XI for the match against Bay FC, marking her first start since her ACL injury in 2022. Her remarkable match on May 9, in which she scored a goal just seconds after being subbed on against the Utah Royals clearly shows fans her successful milestone comeback journey.
Temwa Chawinga’s Historic Feat
Kansas City Current‘s Temwa Chawinga etched her name in the record books by becoming the fastest player in NWSL history to reach 25 regular-season goals, achieving this in just 34 matches. Her decisive goal secured a 1-0 victory over the Orlando Pride, propelling Kansas City to the top of the standings.
Chawinga was named the March NWSL Player of the Month presented by EA SPORTS.
Esther González’s Commitment to Gotham FC
Spanish forward Esther González, the league’s top scorer with seven goals, extended her contract with NJ/NY Gotham FC through the 2027 season. Her leadership and consistent performance have been pivotal for the team’s success.
NWSL’s Challenges
Savy King’s Medical Emergency
A sobering moment occurred on May 9, 2025, when Angel City FC defender Savy King collapsed during a match due to a heart condition. She underwent successful emergency surgery and is currently recovering. The decision to continue the match post-incident drew criticism, leading the NWSL to acknowledge the misstep and commit to revising its emergency protocols to prioritize player safety.
READ: Is Needing Heart Surgery Enough to Stop a Soccer Game?
Toxic Environment in Women’s Soccer? Bay FC Coaching Investigation
The league is conducting an ongoing investigation into Bay FC’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Albertin Montoya, following complaints and concerns about the team’s internal environment.
According to reports, formal complaints were filed against Montoya in 2024, accusing him of a toxic workplace and bullying. Eight players from the 2024 season. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, eight players from the inaugural 2024 season are no longer with the team because of his attitude.
The club’s CEO Brady Stewart said in March that there was “no evidence” of the bullying allegation lodged against Montoya. While Stewart has commitment to the club fully cooperating with the league’s review, Montoya continues to serve as Bay FC’s head coach.
Commissioner Jessica Berman has confirmed that external investigators are involved, emphasizing the league’s dedication to maintaining a safe and respectful atmosphere for all players.
New Investment
Former USWNT star Alex Morgan has become a minority investor in the San Diego Wave, the San Diego based club where she played her pro games. Morgan’s investment reflects her commitment to advancing women’s sports and being a role model.
NWSL’s Future: Looking Ahead
The NWSL’s trajectory continues to impress. With continued plans for expansion and the league’s formal application to the U.S. Soccer Federation to establish a Division II league, aiming to launch in 2026, the future is bright.
These initiative reflect the leagues committment to player development and providing a structured pathway between collegiate soccer and the professional ranks. For the Division II, eight current NWSL clubs have committed to fielding reserve teams in the inaugural season, including Bay FC, Kansas City Current, North Carolina Courage, NJ/NY Gotham FC and Washington Spirit.
As the 2025 season unfolds, the NWSL exemplifies the dynamic and continued evolution of women’s professional soccer in the USA.
