The 2026 FIFPRO Global Employment Report surveyed 800 women’s footballers from around the world. It shows a gap between the sport’s fast commercial growth and the everyday reality for most players. Understanding why many consider quitting early highlights broader challenges in professional sport.

Almost half of the players surveyed – 49 % – say they may quit football earlier than planned. Among those, 59 % cite their financial situation and 46 % point to psychological stress as the main reasons.

The report also reveals that only 56 % of the respondents have a formal employment contract, and just 13 % receive a club pension. These insecure work conditions add to the pressure on athletes who already face low and uneven wages.

Mental health is another major concern: 57 % of the players say they have struggled with their mental well‑being, and half of them received no support from their clubs. The combination of financial uncertainty and lack of psychological help makes many feel the sport is unsustainable for them.

In short, financial strain and insufficient mental‑health support are driving nearly half of women’s footballers to consider early retirement. Without better contracts, pensions and club‑provided care, the sport risks losing more talent.