25 years have passed since the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s iconic penalty shoot-out against China in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, earning them the title of “The 99ers™” and a victory in front of 90,000 fans at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. This moment not only marked a significant win but also inspired millions worldwide, transforming the landscape of women’s sports forever. The Women’s Sports Foundation’s Wilma Rudolph Courage Award recognizes The 99ers for their incredible determination and the impactful advocacy they have championed for the advancement of soccer and the empowerment of girls and women in sports.
The journey towards equality for The 99ers began before the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, where women’s soccer made its debut. The U.S. Soccer Federation locked out nine players from training camp for demanding fair contracts between the women’s and men’s teams. After a prolonged stand-off, they secured improved contracts that included bonuses for podium placements, basic benefits like paid pregnancy leave and childcare, and equal treatment in terms of working conditions. Despite the risk of missing out on their Olympic opportunity, the players stood firm in their beliefs and ultimately claimed the gold in Atlanta.
Their Olympic triumph put women’s soccer in the spotlight, but leading up to the 1999 Women’s World Cup, they faced another challenge from FIFA regarding the tournament venues. The team pushed for matches to be held in major cities and big stadiums, similar to the men’s tournament in 1994. Despite minimal support from FIFA, they persevered and succeeded in drawing massive crowds to their games. Their unity and belief in each other allowed them to secure better resources, paving the way for future victories and landmark achievements.
The collective effort of The 99ers highlights the importance of solidarity and standing up for what is right. Their actions led to improved conditions for women in sports, including better pay, training facilities, and recovery benefits. Their legacy is exemplified by the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s recent equal pay lawsuit settlement and the passage of the Equal Pay for Team USA Act, showcasing the lasting impact of their courage and determination.
The vision of WSF founder Billie Jean King to drive equity for women in sports was embodied by The 99ers’ relentless pursuit of change. Their contributions have been instrumental in propelling women’s sports to new heights, challenging stereotypes, and achieving significant milestones. While there is still progress to be made, their legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for positive change in the realm of women’s sports.
