The iWoman Report: New IOC President, Youngest Soccer player goes pro, and where do women wield the most power?

Kirsty Coventry Makes History as First Female and African IOC President

Kirsty Coventry, a former Olympic swimming champion from Zimbabwe, has made history as the first woman and first African to lead the International Olympic Committee (IOC), following a surprise victory in a highly competitive election. Coventry, 41, secured an overwhelming 49 out of 97 votes, giving her an immediate majority and subsequently making her the most powerful woman in global sports.

In a shock result, Coventry defeated a strong field of contenders, including British track and field star Lord Sebastian Coe, who had long been considered the front-runner. Coe, despite his extensive credentials including two Olympic gold medals, leadership of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, and current position as president of World Athletics—received only eight votes.

“I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC president, and also the first from Africa,” Coventry said after her victory was confirmed by outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach. “This vote is an inspiration to many people, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model. Glass ceilings have been shattered today.”

Coventry’s rise to this prestigious position has been a remarkable one. Born in Zimbabwe, she became one of the most successful swimmers of her generation, winning seven Olympic medals, including a gold in Athens in 2004. Her campaign for the role initially struggled to gain momentum, however, in the final days before the vote was cast, strong lobbying from Bach and senior IOC members appears to have played a decisive role in securing her victory.

Her win marks a significant moment for diversity and representation in sports leadership. As IOC president, Coventry will now oversee the Olympic movement, a position that will shape the future of international sports and the global stage for athletes. In her victory speech she remarked, “Sport has an unmatched ability to unite, inspire, and create opportunities for all." It will also be interesting to see how this change in leadership will affect growing concerns regarding participation of trans female athletes at the games. 

Coventry’s election seemingly signals a new era for the IOC, one that could bring a fresh perspective on governance and inclusion. As she prepares to take office on June 23, 2025, Coventry's leadership will be closely watched as she navigates the complex landscape of global sports politics, especially considering the next games are set to be hosted by Los Angeles, California where she will likely have to deal with President Trump.

These are the U.S. states where women are the most—and least—likely to wield power

In a new study on women’s power and influence across the United States, Washington, D.C. has emerged as the top place for women to thrive. According to the U.S. Women’s Power and Influence Index, a comprehensive report by Future Forward Women and Meteor, the nation’s capital outshines all 50 states in fostering economic, political, and social opportunities for women.

The index, which ranked states based on a range of criteria, reveals that women in D.C. enjoy higher wages, greater access to leadership positions, and stronger support policies than anywhere else in the country, with a median income of $87,000. Report author C. Nicole Mason attributes this success to D.C.'s "women-and-family friendly policies" and its high levels of women in leadership roles.

Oregon, which ranked high on the index, also stood out for its political and legislative influence for women, marking a growing trend of women gaining political power across the nation. However, the study points out that the states with lower rankings are still struggling to provide women with the same opportunities. Alabama, ranking last, faces significant challenges in women’s access to economic and political power, with Mississippi trailing closely behind in economic indicators.

The report also emphasizes the intersection between women's overall health and wellbeing and their ability to wield power. States with lower support for women’s health, such as high maternal mortality rates, limited access to reproductive rights, and less insurance coverage, tend to see a corresponding decrease in women’s political and economic influence.

Mason warns that federal program cuts, such as those to SNAP benefits, could further worsen the situation in lower-ranked states. "Women in these states will likely face even greater barriers in the years ahead," she said, highlighting how policy changes can directly impact women’s power.

Mason hopes the findings of this report serve as a wake-up call, shedding light on the stark differences women face depending on their state of residence. Despite living in the same country under the same constitution, the health, safety, influence, and economic well-being vastly varies for women state to state — which should not be the case. 

As the debate continues over policies affecting women’s rights and welfare, the U.S. Women’s Power and Influence Index stands as a critical tool in understanding where women are making strides — and where they still have a long way to go.

Mak Whitham Makes NWSL History as Youngest Player to Debut in Regular-Season Game

In a historic moment for women’s soccer, Mak Whitham, at just 14 years, became the youngest player ever to feature in a regular-season match in National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) history. Whitham made her debut for NJ/NY Gotham FC in their match against the Seattle Reign, coming on in the final minute of added time.

Whitham's brief but impactful appearance helped Gotham FC hold onto an away point despite playing with ten players after Mandy Freeman’s 87th-minute red card. “I just went in there to work hard and help my team close out the game,” she said, showing the maturity and poise that have defined her meteoric rise in the sport.

After the match, Coach Juan Carlos Amoros expressed his admiration for Whitham, stating, “She’s a very special young player. I didn’t put her on the pitch because of the record, but because she deserves to be here. She’s earned it.”

The debut marked a significant milestone in Whitham’s already groundbreaking career. The young talent had already made history by becoming the youngest soccer player to appear in a top-tier men’s or women’s game in U.S. history during the 2024 NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup against the Washington Spirit. No athlete in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or WNBA has made a professional appearance at a younger age than Whitham in recent history, as confirmed by the Elias Sports Bureau.

Whitham’s professional debut came just two days after signing her first contract with Gotham FC, making her the youngest player ever to sign with an NWSL team. Her meteoric rise isn’t limited to the field. In February, Whitham became the youngest athlete in history to sign a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Nike.

Gotham FC’s general manager, Yael Averbuch West, emphasized the club’s thoughtful approach to Whitham’s development, ensuring her transition to professional soccer is balanced with her social and mental well-being. “The on-the-field part is the easiest for us to evaluate. But we’ve worked hard to make sure this is the right thing for her in every possible way,” Averbuch West said.

As one of the youngest rising stars in the sport, Whitham’s impact on the NWSL and women’s soccer, and women’s sports in general, is just starting, and fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see where her incredible talent takes her next.