Women’s football is no longer in the shadows. The Women’s Super League (WSL) has transformed from a fledgling league to one of the most exciting football competitions globally. With booming viewership, packed stadiums, and increasing commercial interest, the 2025/26 season marks another milestone—record-breaking salaries for its top stars. Let’s dive into the details of who’s cashing the biggest cheques and why it matters.
The Evolution of Pay in Women’s Football
Just a decade ago, most WSL players were juggling part-time jobs with training. Now, thanks to media rights deals, sponsorships, and increased fan support, salaries have surged. Landmark moments like the 2022 Euros victory by the Lionesses only accelerated this rise. Clubs are finally putting their money where their mouth is—investing in talent like never before.
What Influences WSL Salaries?
Several factors drive a player’s worth in the WSL:
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Performance: Goals, assists, leadership, and consistency matter big time.
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Club Finances: Wealthier clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal can afford to offer premium wages.
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Commercial Appeal: Players who shine on Instagram, TikTok, or with brand partnerships boost their value massively.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Players in the 2025/26 WSL Season
1. Sam Kerr – Chelsea
Sam Kerr isn’t just scoring goals—she’s scoring millions. The Australian forward reportedly earns over £500,000 annually from club wages alone, with endorsements from Nike and Visa topping that up. She’s a global icon and the face of Chelsea’s success.
2. Alessia Russo – Arsenal
Arsenal made headlines when they signed Russo on a record-breaking deal after her exit from Manchester United. With a wage reportedly nearing £450,000, she’s one of England’s brightest stars—marketable, clutch, and a fan favorite.
3. Lauren James – Chelsea
Lauren’s brilliance is hard to miss. She's young, fearless, and dazzling on the ball. With an improved contract this season, she’s now among the elite earners in the league. Her collaborations with Adidas and her massive online following only add to her paycheck.
4. Keira Walsh – Manchester City
After a brief stint in Spain, Keira is back in the WSL and richer for it. Her midfield mastery and calm under pressure make her indispensable. She’s estimated to be earning around £400,000 annually.
5. Mary Earps – Manchester United
Goalkeepers are often underpaid—but not Earps. She’s changed that narrative after FIFA’s Best Goalkeeper award and a huge contract extension. Brands love her too, with deals from Adidas and more rolling in.
6. Leah Williamson – Arsenal
Captain. Leader. Inspiration. Leah’s influence stretches beyond football. Though injuries have been a setback, her endorsements and consistent branding with companies like Gucci and Nike keep her among the top earners.
7. Ella Toone – Manchester United
If charisma earned money, Toone would be a billionaire. She's relatable, funny, and incredibly talented. A strong contract with United and her work with sponsors like Pepsi and Beats elevate her total annual income.
8. Guro Reiten – Chelsea
Reiten may fly under the radar compared to others, but her stats scream quality. Her new contract reportedly nets her over £300,000, and deservedly so.
9. Chloe Kelly – Manchester City
The Euro 2022 winning goal boosted Kelly's stardom. She’s now reaping the rewards with a major salary bump and partnerships with Puma and other sports brands.
10. Rachel Daly – Aston Villa
Veteran players like Daly prove that experience pays off. Versatile and dependable, she’s one of the highest earners outside the traditional top-three clubs.
Comparison with Men’s Football
Let’s keep it real—the wage gap is still massive. Top male players in the Premier League earn millions per month, not per year. But here’s the thing: change is coming, and it’s happening fast. Increased visibility and demand are pushing clubs to pay their female athletes better.
Sponsorships and Endorsements Boosting Salaries
Modern football isn’t just about the 90 minutes. A big chunk of these women’s incomes comes from brand deals. Whether it’s sportswear, lifestyle brands, or skincare products—if they can sell it, they can earn from it. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok give players direct access to fans, and brands are loving it.
Impact of High Wages on the WSL
Higher pay doesn’t just benefit players—it elevates the entire league. More money means better training, medical facilities, and overall competition. It also helps attract top international talent, making the WSL the go-to destination for elite players.
Young Players to Watch
Several rising stars are on the brink of cracking the top-paid list:
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Grace Clinton (Tottenham)
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Jess Park (Manchester City)
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Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea)
With breakout seasons, they could be the next headline earners.
Challenges Still Facing Female Players
Despite progress, there are still barriers:
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Uneven pay scales
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Media bias
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Lack of pension or retirement benefits
Until these issues are addressed, true parity remains a goal, not a reality.
The Future of Player Salaries in the WSL
With more broadcast deals, sponsorships, and global attention, we can expect salaries to continue rising. Experts predict that by 2030, WSL’s top earners could break the £1 million mark annually. Not just from football—but from the brand ecosystem they’ve built.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 WSL season is a landmark moment for women’s football. Salaries are catching up, the quality on the pitch is breathtaking, and the stars are shining brighter than ever. From Sam Kerr’s record wages to young guns rising through the ranks, the future is bold, bright, and incredibly lucrative.
About
1. Who is the richest female footballer in WSL?
Currently, Sam Kerr tops the list, with her Chelsea salary and endorsement deals making her the highest earner.
2. Are WSL salaries public?
Not officially, but many figures are estimated based on contract leaks, sponsorship reports, and media coverage.
3. What is the average WSL salary?
As of 2025/26, the average salary in the WSL hovers around £50,000–£60,000 annually—but it varies widely.
4. Do WSL players get paid weekly?
Yes, like their male counterparts, most WSL players are on weekly wage structures, though bonuses and performance incentives also play a role.
5. How can young players earn more in the WSL?
Performance, consistency, building a personal brand, and engaging in sponsorships are the key pathways to higher earnings.