Sophia Wilson has officially confirmed her presence at Portland Thorns FC for the upcoming 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season by activating the player option in her contract. According to Sportico, this option is valued at a record-setting $1 million in the league.
Wilson (née Smith) took a break from play during 2025 as she welcomed her daughter Gianna in September.
“Coming back to Portland is incredibly special to me because it marks the beginning of my professional career and my personal journey,” Wilson conveyed in a press release. “The city holds a lot of memories for me. I love the community here, and I’m eager to reunite with my teammates and play at Providence Park, especially in front of the Riveters. This is an unparalleled place to compete, and I can’t wait to rejoin the field!”
As the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NWSL Draft, Wilson quickly rose to prominence. She achieved the title of Most Valuable Player in 2022, capping off that season with a goal that led the Thorns to their NWSL Championship victory over Kansas City. Wilson made history by becoming the first player to earn both regular-season MVP and NWSL Championship MVP in the same year.
“We are excited to retain a world-class athlete like Sophia in Portland,” stated Jeff Agoos, President and General Manager of Soccer Operations, in the same press release. “Sophia possesses the ability to change the dynamics of a match swiftly. Her return significantly enhances our offensive strength, making our front line one of the toughest in the NWSL.”
In 2022, Wilson netted 14 goals, narrowly missing the Golden Boot to Alex Morgan’s 15 goals. However, she claimed the Boot in 2023 with 11 goals. Over her career with the Thorns, she has totaled 44 goals across 75 regular-season matches.
On the international stage, Wilson played a crucial role in the United States women’s national team winning a gold medal in 2024.
Details regarding the specific terms of her contract have not been released.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZesQfrEnkg
