Chicago, Illinois – Striker Mallory Swanson has made history by signing a groundbreaking contract with the Chicago Red Stars, according to an announcement by the club on Tuesday. The deal will see Swanson remain with the team through 2028, with a four-year contract and a fifth-year option. This newly allowed league contract makes Swanson the highest paid athlete in the league, surpassing the previous record set by Houston Dash winger Maria Sanchez.
While the exact financial terms of Swanson’s contract have not been disclosed, it is believed to be worth more than $400,000 per year. This would put her deal towards the $2 million mark, solidifying her status as a top earner in the sport. Swanson’s signing is not only a significant achievement for her personally, but also marks the first official player signing for the Red Stars under their new ownership group led by Laura Ricketts.
The Red Stars, a team in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), have been going through a period of transition after reports of cultural issues and harassment within the club. They have made efforts to address these concerns, with Ricketts leading the ownership group and Karen Leetzow appointed as the new club president. The signing of Swanson is seen as a pivotal moment in the club’s rebuilding process and signals a new era for the Red Stars.
During her time with the team, Swanson has been a key player in their attack, earning accolades such as two MVP finalist seasons and being named MVP runner-up in 2021. Despite her impressive performances, a devastating knee injury prevented her from competing in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she was poised to make a significant impact. The Red Stars struggled without her, finishing last in the league and missing out on the playoffs for the first time since 2015.
Swanson’s decision to sign a long-term contract with the Red Stars was influenced by her desire to be in the same city as her husband, Dansby Swanson, who is the shortstop for the Chicago Cubs. The length of her contract is the longest signed by any free agent this offseason, reflecting her commitment to the team and the city.
The introduction of free agency in the NWSL has provided players with the opportunity to explore other options, but Swanson ultimately chose to stay with the Red Stars due to her belief in the team’s vision and the support of the new ownership. The recent hiring of Lorne Donaldson as the new head coach further adds to the sense of a fresh start for the Red Stars. Donaldson, who previously coached Swanson on the Jamaican women’s national team, is highly regarded for his ability to bring out the best in players.
As Swanson looks ahead to the future, she is excited to be part of a new era for the Red Stars. She believes that the team’s hardworking and determined mentality, coupled with the leadership of Laura Ricketts, will set the club on the right path towards success. Swanson’s signing not only solidifies her own place in soccer history, but also serves as a symbol of the Red Stars’ commitment to rebuilding and creating a winning culture.