Sports Lawyer Jessica Berman Signs Three-Year Extension as NWSL Commissioner through 2028
Jessica Berman, a former lawyer at Proskauer, has signed a three-year contract extension to remain commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League through the 2028 season, the league announced. The extension ensures continuity of leadership during a significant period of growth and transformation for women’s professional soccer in the United States.
Berman, who became commissioner in 2022, has played a key role in stabilizing and strengthening the league following a period marked by governance challenges and workplace culture investigations. Since taking office, she has focused on improving league operations and establishing stronger oversight structures aimed at rebuilding trust among players, fans and sponsors.
During her tenure, Berman has also overseen significant commercial growth for the NWSL. The league has expanded its sponsorship portfolio, increased media exposure and attracted new ownership groups to several clubs. League officials credit Berman with helping usher in a new generation of investors, including prominent ownership groups that have contributed to rising franchise valuations and increased national attention for the league.
Under Berman’s leadership, the NWSL has continued to build momentum both on and off the field. Attendance has increased in several markets, while expansion initiatives have added new teams and strengthened the league’s competitive landscape. The NWSL has also implemented governance reforms and strengthened player protections following earlier investigations into misconduct within the sport.
League officials said the extension reflects confidence in Berman’s leadership and the progress the league has made during her tenure. With Berman now under contract through 2028, the NWSL aims to maintain stability as it continues to pursue expansion, negotiate future media rights agreements and develop new commercial partnerships.
Berman has said her priority remains building a league that supports players, clubs and fans while positioning the NWSL as a global leader in women’s professional soccer.
With the extension in place, the league’s leadership structure will remain intact during a pivotal moment for women’s sports, as investment, visibility and fan engagement continue to grow.