Kelley O'Hara Calls Out NWSL's 'High Impact Player' Rule Kelley O'Hara, a former U.S. women’s national team star, recently voiced her mixed feelings about the National Women’s Soccer League’s new “High Impact Player” rule, which was introduced to retain top-tier athletes like Trinity Rodman. O'Hara, speaking on the “Time Wasting” podcast, praised Rodman’s decision to re-sign with the Washington Spirit after initially considering a move to European soccer. The 23-year-old forward, now the highest-paid player in the world, signed a three-year contract extension with the Spirit in January 2026, through the 2028 season. O'Hara expressed personal and professional relief over Rodman’s commitment to the league, calling her a vital figure for the NWSL’s growth. “She brings honesty, excitement, and a unique energy to the game—both on and off the field,” O'Hara said. “We need players like her to keep the league engaging and competitive.” However, she also criticized the rule’s implementation, arguing that while the league’s intent was understandable, the approach was flawed. The High Impact Player rule allows teams to exceed the salary cap by up to $1 million to retain players who meet specific criteria, such as being a key contributor, accumulating significant minutes with the national team, or receiving award nominations. The policy was announced in December 2025, coinciding with heightened media attention on Rodman, whose annual salary surpassed $2 million. O'Hara acknowledged the league’s need to retain stars like Rodman but questioned whether the rule’s structure was the best solution. She emphasized that while the NWSL’s efforts to retain top talent were necessary, the rule’s creation risked setting a precedent that could complicate long-term financial stability.#washington_spirit #national_womens_soccer_league #kelley_ohara #trinity_rodman #high_impact_player_rule
