The U.S. Soccer Federation needs to change the way it treats the women’s national team, according to Kyle Martino, a candidate for the group’s presidency. “They are the mavericks,” he told Cheddar. “If we don’t focus on treating them like World Cup winners...and investing and growing the grassroots on the women’s side, that success isn’t going to continue.” The U.S. women’s team has won three Women’s World Cup titles since the tournament began as well as four Olympic gold medals. Martino said the team should be paid as much as the men, who failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup following an embarrassing loss to Trinidad and Tobago. In his race for the organization’s presidency, the former midfielder and sports broadcaster faces a crowded field. The eight candidatesinclude World Cup champion Hope Solo. The elections will be held at the National Council Meeting this weekend. For full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/the-race-for-u-s-soccer-president-heats-up).

Share:
More In Sports
Family Reunion Awaits Philippines' 1st Olympic Champion
Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz’s arduous buildup to the Tokyo Olympics culminated on the top step of the podium. Diaz won the first Olympic gold medal for the Philippines in a triumphant result for a country that has competed at every Summer Olympics except one since 1924.
Tokyo Olympics Viewership Down as Games Begin
After a year of delays, the Tokyo Olympics is finally here. But the growth in streaming is expected to lower broadcast viewership numbers. Still, advertisers and sponsors haven't pulled out of the popular live sporting event.
Tokyo Olympic Flame Is the First Powered by Hydrogen
The flame at Tokyo’s National Stadium and another cauldron burning along the waterfront near Tokyo Bay throughout the games will be sustained in part by hydrogen, the first time the clean fuel source will be used to power an Olympic fire.
Load More