Sponsorship deals are exploding. Barclays, Nike, Google—everyone wants a piece of the Lionesses. Prize money for the 2026 Women’s World Cup was triple what it was in 2019. That extra cash filters down. It’s a bit like when your friend wins the office lottery pool and suddenly buys a round for everyone. The whole ship rises.
And the FA’s historic deal means that when the male players are on the coach to a tournament, they’re waiting for the female players to board so they can share the pot equally. That’s not just a contract—it’s a handshake of respect.
How Are Soccer Players Paid? The Real Story About Their Income
So, how much do they really get paid?
On the very low end, a WSL player might earn £20,000–£30,000. That’s less than a first-year nurse. On the high end, top Lionesses like Lucy Bronze or Mary Earps might earn £200,000–£300,000 a year with club and bonuses. That’s a solid dentist’s salary, but it’s not Premier League money (which starts at £1 million for the lowest paid reserve).
And for the national team? A player takes home around £2,000 per match for a friendly, plus bonuses for wins and tournaments. If they win the World Cup? The bonus pool could be £100,000 each. That’s life-changing, yes. But it’s a one-off, not a constant stream.
