Hope Solo Domestic Violence: Soccer And Nike Contract Draws Controversy Following Recent NFL Cases

The National Football League has been criticized for its handling of alleged domestic violence incidents involving Ray Rice, Adrian Peterson and other football players, yet U.S. soccer has been largely silent on its own issues. The NFL suspended a number of players as the domestic violence allegations came to light. The spotlight has now turned to the U.S. national women’s soccer team for allowing goaltender Hope Solo, 33, to continue playing despite alleged domestic violence charges.

Solo, a goaltender who also plays for the Seattle Reign Football Club, was arrested in June for alleged domestic violence against her sister and nephew at a party in Kirkland, Washington. But since the arrest, Solo has continued playing for the Reign and the U.S. national team as it works its way toward the 2015 Women’s World Cup.

"We are aware that Hope is handling a personal situation at this moment,” Neil Buethe, U.S. Soccer director of communications, told EspnW. “At the same time, she has an opportunity to set a significant record that speaks to her hard work and dedication over the years with the National Team. While considering all factors involved, we believe that we should recognize that in the proper way."

The New York Times called attention to the problem, slamming U.S. Soccer for not treating the incident with the same seriousness the NFL finally showed. Nike also has been accused of remaining silent on Solo’s case, even though it was quick to drop its sponsorship deals with Rice and Peterson.

Solo has pleaded not guilty to the charges, with her trial set for November.