USWNT sensation Sophia Smith has signed a new contract with the Portland Thorns, solidifying her status as the highest-paid player in the NWSL.
Under the terms of the newly inked agreement, Smith will continue her tenure with the Thorns until the conclusion of the 2025 season, with the possibility of extending for an additional year.
Although Portland Thorns has not disclosed the financial details of the contract, Karina LeBlanc, the Thorns’ general manager, confirmed that Smith’s earnings under the new deal will put her to the position of the highest-paid player in the NWSL.
This was corroborated by an NWSL spokesperson, who also confirmed that Smith’s annual salary is indeed the highest in the league.
Sophia Smith USWNT (Via MLS/Twitter)
In a reflective statement regarding her decision to prolong her stay with Portland, Smith expressed her satisfaction and ambition, stating to The Athletic: “I’m feeling really at peace with the decision to stay in Portland.
There’s still things that I want to do with this club, and trophies I want to win.
With new ownership coming in, I have already felt that this club is going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that. I don’t want to miss that. I’ve grown so much as a person and a player here; I feel like I still have so much to learn and grow.”
Despite the allure of opportunities abroad, particularly in Europe, Smith emphasized her commitment to the NWSL. While acknowledging the unique challenges of European football, Smith affirmed her dedication to the league.
Sophia Smith USWNT (Via MLS/Twitter)
“I thought of all the options,” Smith explained. “I’m always thinking of all the options because I always want to put myself in the best position. I do feel like I’m in the prime years of my career, and where I play right now will play a big role in how much I can achieve.
“[But] I don’t believe that every player needs to go to Europe to become who they’re supposed to be. I don’t believe that narrative.
This league is so good for me. It’s the exact type of style that I like to play and thrive in. I still have so much to learn in this league, and with this club specifically, and I don’t want to move on from that yet.”
As Smith prepares for the next phase of her career with the Portland Thorns, her contract extension not only underscores her remarkable talent and value but also reaffirms the NWSL’s status as a premier destination for elite women’s football talent.
She will return to action against Racing Louisville on Saturday in the NWSL.
