Mallory Swanson signs NWSL-record $2M US free-agent deal with Red Stars

Mallory Swanson entered free agency for the first time and cashed in with a record-breaking four-year contract with the Chicago Red Stars worth a reported $2 million US, including a fifth-year option.

Swanson, a popular United States women's national team striker, was acquired by Chicago in 2021 in a trade with NJ/NY Gotham FC, becomes the highest-paid player in NWSL.

Her contract exceeds the previous standard-setting agreement between the Houston Dash and winger Maria Sanchez. The Mexican international signed a three-year contract through free agency reportedly worth $1.5 million.

"The Red Stars could not be more excited that Mallory Swanson has decided to extend her career with us here in Chicago," Red Stars president Karen Leetzow said. "Mallory exemplifies the grit, focus, and resiliency of our franchise and is an anchor for this team.

"Mal is a born leader on and off the field and I look forward to working with her to make the Red Stars a championship team."

Leetzow is part of a complete structural overhaul in Chicago that included an ownership and coaching change.

Swanson said re-signing with Chicago was an easy decision because it kept her with her family. Swanson married Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson in December 2022 and no longer goes by her maiden name, Pugh.

She’s back. <a href="https://twitter.com/MalPugh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MalPugh</a>