International Women's Day: Money, money, money

You already know we have to highlight the USWNT’s historic equal pay settlement with the U.S. Soccer Federation. Given the squad’s role at the forefront of the fight for progress both in and beyond the sports world, this landmark settlement truly embodies the meaning of IWD.

• From their 2019 World Cup title to their recent “LFG” documentary, members of the USWNT have inspired countless women to stand up for their worth. This win transcends sports — they are the moment.

And we’d be remiss not to mention the NWSL and the NWSL Players Association reaching their first-ever collective bargaining agreement (CBA). On the heels of a tumultuous 2021 season, the CBA will help improve player salaries, safety and quality of life.

• Increase in minimum salary? Check. Introduction of free agency (a system which empowers players and helps ensure they’re paid what they’re worth)? You betcha. Eight weeks of paid parental leave? HYFR.

• And what we consider to be the pièce de résistance? The CBA guarantees players up to six months of paid mental health leave. Yes, yes, yes.