Revolutionizing the Game: Astounding Growth Awaits Women's Football, Proclaims US Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone on Eve of World Cup

The president of US Soccer predicts that women's football is on the verge of experiencing significant growth. This optimistic outlook comes as the reigning World Cup champions prepare for their quest for a third consecutive title, defeating Wales 2-0 in San Jose on Sunday. With a club season marked by record-breaking attendance and transfer fees, the upcoming Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is expected to further highlight the rise of the sport.

According to Cindy Parlow Cone, women's football has had a presence in the United States for a while, but she believes that it is now gaining recognition worldwide and will undergo significant changes in the near future. In an exclusive interview with We, she stated that the women's game used to be seen more as a charitable endeavor, but that perception is shifting.

"I believe that the trend we have witnessed in the US, and now adopted by numerous countries, federations, and clubs, highlights the significant benefits of investing in women's football.

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Trinity Rodman scored twice later on as USA eventually overcame Wales on Sunday

Sponsors are increasingly showing greater commitment to women's sports, while media outlets and broadcasters are investing more in their coverage.

The number of fans attending these events is also on the rise, and we find this progress truly remarkable. We will strive to further drive this positive momentum.

I believe this is only the start. The growth of the men's game will persist, but the women's game is now primed for significant expansion. The significance of the women's game has come into prominence this week due to England's players engaging in a disagreement with the FA regarding performance-based bonuses during the upcoming World Cup.

Parlow Cone played a crucial role in advocating for fair pay in women's football. She successfully negotiated landmark collective-bargaining agreements for the US teams, leading the country to become the pioneer in achieving gender equality in pay. Both the men's and women's teams now contribute their earnings to a shared fund, which is distributed equitably between the two teams.

Without commenting on the England case directly, she emphasized the challenges of achieving equal pay and the importance of ongoing progress. She highlighted the actions taken by other federations to either achieve equal pay or work towards it, including recent steps by FIFA. In this regard, she noted that a portion of the prize money is now guaranteed to the players, resulting in a significant increase of 60% in player earnings compared to the previous World Cup.

We acknowledge that there is still much work to be done, and we will continue to collaborate with FIFA and any federations that approach us to evaluate our efforts. We are delighted to provide assistance. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that each federation has the opportunity to take steps towards achieving equal pay or equal investment.

It is possible that not every federation can achieve equal pay as we have done, considering the considerable time it took for us to reach this point. Nevertheless, making progress towards equality is highly important. This could involve initiatives such as establishing youth teams, increasing investment in women's teams, enhancing programming for girls and women, bridging the pay gap between men's and women's teams, or narrowing the disparity in their programming.

USA go into World Cup elevated by experience

USA enters the tournament as favorites, edging out England, and aims for an unprecedented third consecutive World Cup victory. This remarkable feat has never been accomplished in either the men's or women's game.

In anticipation of the triumph over Wales, Parlow Cone, who previously claimed the title with USA in 1999, expressed genuine confidence within the USA camp. They firmly believe that their outstanding quality and experience will propel them to another glorious victory.

She expressed, "There's a great deal of excitement buzzing around. The players and staff are eager to reach New Zealand, settle in, and dedicate themselves to preparations for the Women's World Cup.

When it comes to the women's team and their potential to secure a third consecutive victory and fifth overall, I hold strong faith and belief. I eagerly anticipate observing the team's progress and development over the upcoming weeks, as teamwork evolution and growth are crucial for securing a World Cup victory."

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According to Anton Toloui from We News, Sophia Smith, the forward from the United States, has the potential to become the leading goal scorer in the World Cup. He emphasizes the significance of experience in such a tournament, stating that despite all the preparation, first-time World Cup participants might not fully comprehend the challenges they will face until they actually arrive.

'Rapinoe will continue to do great things'

Having many players on the team who have participated in multiple World Cups is expected to bring immense value to the team and greatly assist the first-time World Cup players in navigating through the process.

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Megan Rapinoe, an experienced player, has revealed that the upcoming 2023 NWSL season will mark her retirement from the sport, making it her final World Cup.

Rapinoe's impressive resume, comprising of two World Cups, an Olympic gold medal, and 199 international appearances, solidifies her as a legendary figure in US football. Her significance extends beyond her on-field achievements, as she has garnered attention for her activism and stance on societal matters. Parlow Cone anticipates Rapinoe to maintain her influential role even after retiring from professional football.

"I believe we are all filled with sadness upon hearing the announcement; however, we are also immensely grateful for all of Megan's contributions, both on and off the field," expressed Parlow Cone. "Her influence has touched countless individuals here in the United States, as well as on a global scale.

"Her impact has been profound, both in her athletic achievements and her endeavors outside of soccer. Personally, she has motivated me to become a superior individual and leader, and I am aware that she has had similar effects on others."

"We're definitely going to miss Megan but I don't think this is the last we've heard from Megan.

"She's going to go on to continue to do great things, even if it isn't between the white lines."

When and where is the 2023 Women's World Cup?

Hosting this year's tournament in Australia and New Zealand marks a historic moment as it is the first-ever co-hosted Women's World Cup. A victory for the USA in this prestigious event would undoubtedly serve as a remarkable finale on the international stage.

The tournament commences on July 20 and culminates with the final on August 20 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney.

The USA, as defending champions, aims to make history by securing their third consecutive tournament victory.