Sophia Wilson has opted into her contract with Portland Thorns FC and will continue with the team for the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season. According to Sportico, this option is valued at a league-record $1 million.
Wilson, formerly known as Smith, did not play in 2025 due to her pregnancy and welcomed her daughter Gianna in September.
“Returning to Portland means a lot to me because this is where I began my professional journey and where I have grown,” Wilson stated in a press release. “I love the city and its people. I’m looking forward to reuniting with everyone and playing at Providence Park in front of the Riveters. There is truly no other place like it!”
As the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NWSL Draft, Wilson gained fame quickly and was named Most Valuable Player in 2022. She capped off that season with a goal in the Thorns’ NWSL Championship victory over Kansas City, making her the first player to earn MVP honors in both the regular season and the championship in the same year.
“We are delighted that a world-class player like Sophia will continue to call Portland her home,” said Jeff Agoos, President and General Manager of Soccer Operations, in the same release. “Sophia is an exceptional talent who can change the game and will enhance our attack, making our front line one of the strongest in the NWSL.”
In 2022, Wilson scored 14 goals, just shy of the Golden Boot, which was won by Alex Morgan with 15. In 2023, she secured the Golden Boot despite scoring 11 goals. Overall, she has achieved 44 goals in 75 regular season games for the Thorns.
Wilson played a significant role in securing a gold medal for the United States women’s national team in 2024.
Details of the contract were not disclosed.
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