Professional women athletes all over the world are still being less paid than men. This issue is happening in all professional sports even though women are playing just as hard as the men. This pay gap happens all over the world including the United States. Even when games are being watched by millions, women’s teams are often getting less money from sponsors and leagues. Women are getting paid less than men because there is less public interest and less market for them compared to men. Shaena Alina states, “I think women athletes get paid less than men largely because of biases and the way sports have been promoted, men’s sports have been more promoted creating a gap in pay.” According to the article “Male vs Female Professional Sports Salary Comparison”, they showed that the average salary for an NBA player is $10,776,383 while the average salary for a WNBA player is $113,295. Jasmine Ma’ae says, “I think women are getting paid 60 to 25 thousand a year.”
On the other, Mia Valdez states, “I would say their pay is determined by the sport in which they are competing in and I think that they are getting around 75,000 a year and men are making like 90,000 a year.” In the MLS, they are getting paid $471,279, while the NWSL is getting paid $54,000. Women’s sports have definitely become more popular over the years and are expected to keep growing in popularity. Valdez states, “I do think women’s sports are gaining more acknowledgement due to multiple scandals of the comparison in men’s and women’s sports conditions.” Shaena also mentions, “Yes, women’s sports are growing in popularity and more people are becoming more aware of female athletes, and events are getting more attention. Social media is also a big help and allows athletes to connect.” Women not being paid the amount that they deserve can affect how they need to support themselves.
Jasmine says, “I think if they aren’t getting paid the amount they deserve they might need a second job or quit early. It can also affect little girls and they may not believe they can have a career in sports.” Valdez also explains, “I would say that it affects their motivation and dedication to the sport. And knowing that you are getting paid below what you deserve can mess with your head.” This reveals that their hard work and dedication should be more acknowledged and equal.
