The NWSL faces a surge of anti-trans bigotry fueled by a controversial editorial from a player and right-wing media, prompting league and player responses emphasizing inclusivity and condemning hate, amid ongoing debates over transgender participation in women's sports.
Team leaders of Los Angeles' Angel City FC criticized a teammate's op-ed calling for strict gender standards in the NWSL, which they and other players condemned as racist and transphobic, emphasizing the team's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Alyssa Thompson, a young American soccer star, flew to London amid Chelsea's efforts to finalize a transfer deal, which could surpass $1 million, with negotiations ongoing as the transfer deadline approaches.
Angel City FC defender Savy King, who collapsed on the field due to a heart abnormality, credits her medical team for saving her life and expects to make a full recovery and return to play, despite the incident drawing criticism and prompting league policy changes.
Angel City FC showed support for immigrants by wearing 'Immigrant City Football Club' shirts during a match, in response to recent ICE raids in Los Angeles, emphasizing the city's diversity and the importance of immigrants to the community.
Angel City FC showed solidarity with immigrants during a match by wearing and distributing 'Immigrant City Football Club' shirts, supporting community and immigrant rights amid ongoing ICE raids, and engaging supporters in advocacy actions.
Bob Iger and Willow Bay are taking a controlling stake in Angel City FC, valuing the team at $250 million. They will invest an additional $50 million for the club's growth. Bay will have full control of the board. The move comes amid rising interest and investment in women's sports, with Angel City FC leading in revenue and attendance. Existing owners, including notable sports icons, will remain involved.
Willow Bay and Disney CEO Bob Iger have acquired a majority stake in Angel City FC, valuing the National Women's Soccer League team at $250 million. The couple will invest an additional $50 million into the club, with Bay taking full control of the board. The transaction, pending league approval, is expected to close within 30 to 60 days. This move makes Angel City the most valuable women's sports team globally and marks a significant moment in the growth of women's sports.
The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is seeing a surge in ambition and progress, with teams making significant investments in players, facilities, and branding. Kansas City Current leads the ambition rankings with their new stadium and training complex, while Angel City FC and San Diego Wave FC also demonstrate strong ambition. Washington Spirit and Bay FC are also making waves with their player spending and long-term vision, while established teams like Portland Thorns and Racing Louisville FC continue to strive for success amidst transitions and challenges.
Alyssa Thompson, the youngest player to represent the United States in a World Cup in the last 28 years, brings a new dynamic to the Women's World Cup. With her mix of speed and tenacity, Thompson has the potential for stardom and the ability to attract diverse audiences. Representing her Peruvian and African American-Filipino heritage, she aims to motivate young players of color to come through the system and become role models themselves. Thompson will likely come off the bench as a secret weapon for the U.S. team, showcasing her improvisation and creativity on the field.
Angel City FC has fired head coach Freya Coombe halfway through the NWSL season with the team in 11th place. Assistant coach Becki Tweed will serve as interim head coach. Coombe was hired in 2021 ahead of Angel City's inaugural season and kept the team in playoff contention for most of the season before an eighth-place finish in 2022. Despite the team's current standing, the head-coaching role at Angel City is expected to be an attractive position, with potential candidates including Laura Harvey.
Angel City FC reportedly fired head coach Freya Coombe after 28 matches due to the team's poor performance this season, with just 9 points and two wins. Coombe joined the team in 2021 and guided them to an 8-5-9 record in their first season. The club has not yet commented on the report.
18-year-old soccer prodigy Alyssa Thompson, who made her Angel City debut with a "golazo" goal, has been called up to the US women's national team due to an injury to star forward Mallory Swanson. Thompson, a high school senior, has already made two appearances for the national squad and could be a contender for the World Cup roster. USWNT coach Vlatko Andonovski praised Thompson's ability to break down complex defenses and eliminate players on the dribble. Thompson will play against the Republic of Ireland in St. Louis on Tuesday night.