Michelle Kang (65), a Korean-American entrepreneur and owner of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team Washington Spirit, has pledged a historic $30 million donation to the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), the largest contribution in its history aimed at promoting women’s soccer.
According to reports by CNN and ESPN on November 19, Kang’s donation will fund a women’s soccer development initiative, including programs to boost competitiveness, enhance player expertise, and recruit female coaches and referees over the next five years.
ESPN described Kang’s donation as the largest ever dedicated to women’s soccer development in U.S. Soccer’s history. CNN highlighted the impact, noting that the initiative could increase the number of women athletes entering the sport by up to 12 times.
“Women’s sports have been undervalued and overlooked for far too long,” Kang said. “I am committed to raising the standard of excellence in women’s soccer – both on and off the pitch – by delivering the resources female athletes need to reach their full potential and surround them with the professional support they deserve.”
She added, “I hope this investment serves as ‘seed capital’ and spurs other donors to follow suit.”
U.S. Soccer Federation President Cindy Parlow Cone praised Kang’s generosity, stating, “Michelle Kang’s gift will transform soccer for women and girls in the United States, impacting generations of women and girls in our game, including players, coaches, and referees.”
Emma Hayes, former Chelsea manager and current head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team, remarked, “I believe a gift like this will change the trajectory of the sport
Kang’s influence extends beyond soccer. As the first woman of color to own an NWSL team, she previously donated $4 million to USA Rugby after the U.S. Women’s Rugby team won a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics in July.
A notable figure in sports and business, Kang is the daughter of the late Yoonja Lee, a trailblazing South Korean lawmaker who championed consumer and women’s rights in the 11th and 13th National Assembly sessions.
Kang began her career after studying at Sogang University in Seoul and later moved to the U.S. for further education. She held executive roles at Northrop Grumman and founded the healthcare consulting firm Cognosante in 2008. Kang became co-owner of the Washington Spirit in 2020, acquired full ownership in 2022, and signed an agreement to purchase the French women’s soccer club Olympique Lyonnais Féminin in 2023.
Last year, Sports Illustrated recognized Kang as one of the 50 most influential figures in sports, underscoring her impact and contributions to the industry.
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM, YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
