Catarina Macario Signs Record-Breaking Deal with San Diego Wave FC

San Diego Wave FC has secured the services of U.S. Women’s national team forward Catarina Macario in a deal that is believed to be the largest total contract value in women’s soccer history. The agreement, finalized ahead of the NWSL transfer window closing, will keep Macario with the Wave through the 2030 season.

Contract Details and Transfer

Macario’s contract is reportedly worth approximately $8 million over five years ESPN and All For XI. San Diego will pay a transfer fee of roughly $300,000 to Chelsea FC Women to acquire her immediately, despite her contract with the English club being set to expire this summer ESPN.

NWSL’s High Impact Player Rule

The Wave will utilize the NWSL’s new “High Impact Player” rule to accommodate Macario’s contract. This rule allows teams to pay star players up to $1 million outside of the league’s salary cap, provided they meet specific criteria ESPN. The NWSL team salary cap for 2026 is $3.7 million ESPN.

Macario’s Recent History and Return to San Diego

Macario has faced injury challenges recently, including a torn ACL and knee issues that kept her out of the 2023 Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics All For XI. She hasn’t appeared for Chelsea since December 14th. A return to San Diego holds personal significance for Macario, as her family settled there when she was 12 years classic after moving from Brazil Equalizer Soccer and All For XI.

Impact on the NWSL and U.S. National Team

Macario’s decision to join the San Diego Wave represents a significant win for the NWSL, as it reverses a recent trend of top players moving to European leagues Equalizer Soccer. She is expected to be a key player for the U.S. National team as they prepare for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, having scored 16 goals in 29 appearances ESPN.

The Wave opened the NWSL season with a 1-0 loss to the Houston Dash on Saturday ESPN.