Almost half of female footballers are considering retiring early, survey shows

Financial situation and psychological stress citedFifpro global survey interviewed 800 playersNearly half of female footballers are considering leaving the game early, with financial pressures and mental health struggles the main reasons, according to a Fifpro report highlighting the gulf between the sport’s rapid growth and conditions for most ⁠players.The 2026 Fifpro global employment report “Working ⁠Conditions in Women’s Football”, billed by ​the global players’ union as the most extensive review of working conditions in the women’s game in a decade, interviewed 800 players and found stark disparities. Continue reading…

Financial pressures and mental health struggles are the main reasons why players are thinking about retiring early, a Fifpro survey has shown Nearly half of female footballers are considering leaving the game early, with financial pressures and mental health struggles the main reasons, according to a Fifpro report highlighting the gulf between the sport’s rapid growth and conditions for most ⁠players. The 2026 Fifpro global employment report “Working ⁠Conditions in Women’s Football”, billed by ​the global players’ union as the most extensive review of working conditions in the women’s game in a decade, interviewed 800 players and found stark disparities.

Among the players surveyed, 49% said they were considering leaving football earlier than planned. Of ⁠those, 59% cited their financial situation as a reason and 46% pointed to psychological stress. In the Guardian app, tap the Profile settings button at the top right, then select Notifications. Turn on sport notifications. If you already have the Guardian app, make sure you’re on the most recent version. If you don't have the