5 things we learned from the 2019 Women’s World Cup

With the World Cup over, here’s what we learned about women’s soccer following the month-long extravaganza from France.

The World Cup that took place in France over the past four weeks showcased the best of women’s soccer.

Labeled a landmark event even before the first kick was made, the tournament lived up to its original billing, even surpassing it at times, and has forever cemented women’s soccer as a marquee sport. The motto “Dare to Shine” that was emblazoned on shirts and billboards across France proved not just to be a marketing buzzword, but a real embodiment of where women’s soccer is at the moment in the global sports landscape.

While the fight over gender equity, sexual abuse and other issues persist, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, at a news conference ahead of Sunday’s final, wasn’t shy about labeling it the “best Women’s World Cup ever.” A lot of that was due to what happened on the field (the players and coaches) and off of it (the fans and organizers).

“There was a before and there will be an after the World Cup but it is up to us to seize the opportunity and do something about it,” added Infantino.

It remains to be seen what the sport’s governing body will do when it comes to promoting and growing the women’s game. Infantino has already proposed two things: doubling the prize money and increasing the number of participants at the next tournament in 2023. That can go a long way in developing the game, especially in countries where women’s soccer has struggled.

With a look at the future, here are five things we learned from this Women’s World Cup.