Stars from the USWNT have reacted to the dismissal of their equal pay lawsuit from a judge.
A judge favored the U.S. Soccer Federation in a summary judgment, saying that the USWNT’s claim that they were being paid less than the USMNT was insufficient to warrant a trial.
Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan and Ali Krieger have all released statements to go along with the USWNT spokeswoman who said they are ‘shocked and disappointed’ by the summary judgement.
USWNT captain Rapinoe said ‘we will never stop fighting for equality’ and Krieger added ‘we will continue to fight like hell and get what we deserve.’
Striker Alex Morgan added: ‘although disappointing to hear this news, this will not discourage us in our fight for equality.’
The judge also ruled against the USWNT lawsuit when it came to their claim about playing on artificial turf rather than grass but is yet to rule on their complaints regarding travel and player care not being on an equal level to the USMNT.
The decision is a huge shock, as the USWNT players who filed the lawsuit were asking for $66 million in damages from USSF.
USWNT spokeswoman Molly Levinson said the women will immediately appeal the decision.
“We are shocked and disappointed with today’s decision, but we will not give up our hard work for equal pay. We are confident in our case and steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that girls and women who play this sport will not be valued as lesser just because of their gender. We have learned that there are tremendous obstacles to change; we know that it takes bravery and courage and perseverance to stand up to them. We will appeal and press on. Words cannot express our gratitude to all who support us.”
