Why FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 holds special importance
FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 is underway and this year's edition is set to be one to remembered in the game's book of history. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
The FIFA Women's World Cup is underway, and this edition stands above all before, ticking multiple boxes on the special list.
From FIFA implementing a new salary policy to the increase in participating nations, this tournament promises to be one of firsts and lasts.
What
Last year's FIFA Men's World Cup provided football fans with cherished memories, from underdog teams like Morocco capturing hearts to Lionel Messi finally securing the cup. However, it also left a void, now filled by the FIFA Women's World Cup.
The 2023 Women's World Cup kicked off with Norway's defeat to the hosts New Zealand, followed by Australia facing the Republic of Ireland.
Spanning from July 20 to August 20, this edition holds special importance in football history as it marks the beginning of significant changes to the tournament's format.
This particular edition holds special importance in the game’s book of history as this is the year which will mark the beginning of some major steps which will alter the tournament’s working blueprint in the future.
On the other hand, this year’s Women’s World Cup will also bring the last games of some renowned players of the category. One thing that all these factors make sure of is that this year’s tournament is one to not miss a glimpse of.
What makes FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 special
There are several factors that make this tournament stand out from all its preceding editions:
Two hosts for the first time
This edition achieves a significant milestone by having multiple host nations for the first time - Australia and New Zealand.
Additionally, it is the inaugural World Cup held across diverse confederations, with Australia representing the Asian confederation and New Zealand the Oceanian confederation.
More teams to fight for the cup
Historically, this tournament is the first to adopt a more extensive format, with 32 participating teams, up from the previous 24. This brings the Women's category in line with the men's World Cup format used from 1998 to 2022, promoting further development of Women's football and offering more nations a chance to shine on the international stage.
FIFA's new salary policy
In June 2023, FIFA announced a prize pool of $110 million for this Women's World Cup, a significant increase of $80 million from the previous tournament.
Importantly, FIFA will now pay the prize money directly to the players, addressing past concerns of national associations holding back funds. This move aims to ensure players receive their rightful rewards.
A last dance for Rapinoe
While the tournament celebrates new beginnings, it carries a bittersweet undertone as it marks the last time Megan Rapinoe will wear the US Women's football team colours.
The iconic figure in women's football announced her retirement after this World Cup. With 199 appearances, 63 goals, and 73 assists for the United States, she has achieved two World Cup victories.
Megan Rapinoe on the timing of her retirement announcement. Rapinoe will be retiring at the end of the 2023 NWSL season having pretty much won it all! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/ef6QIWbC6w
— 90min_US (@90min_us) July 13, 2023
Rapinoe's remarkable work both on and off the pitch, including her LGBTQ advocacy and involvement in non-sport-related matters, have left a lasting impact.