HOUSTON — María Sánchez of the Houston Dash is now reportedly the high-paid player in the National Women's Soccer League.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the 27-year-old Sánchez on Monday signed a deal worth nearly $1.5 million over the next four years, which is higher than the $1.1 million deal signed by Trinity Rodman the Washington Spirit in 2022.
Sánchez, who became a member of the Dash ahead of the 2022 regular season, led the team with four goals and four assists last season.
She was a free agent with plenty of options, but decided to stay in Houston.
"Houston, I am so excited to be coming back. I am so privileged to represent such an amazing city and group of fans,” Sánchez said in a statement Monday. “Words can’t describe the gratitude I have for the endless support I have received while representing the Dash. I can’t wait to get back to work and reach new levels of success for the club.”
Sanchez spoke to KHOU 11's Jason Bristol on Monday, talking about her decision to re-sign with the Dash.
“For me, something that’s always been important is the environment I’m in an the future of my career," she said. "And I think in Houston, I want to win championships. I want to become one of the best players in the world and the trust, the believe that Houston has in me made it an easier decision."
Sánchez is a native of American Falls, Idaho. She began playing organized soccer when she was in high school and led the state in scoring, according to the Dash website. She played college soccer at Idaho State before transferring to Santa Clara University. In her senior year, she led Division I in assists with 16.