Saturday’s match at Wrigley Field between the host Chicago Red Stars and Bay FC set a league attendance record.

The announced crowd of 35,038 fans broke the previous NWSL mark of 34,130, set when Megan Rapinoe played her final home match for the Seattle Reign in October 2023.

“On behalf of the Red Stars, I would like to thank all fans and every person who helped us welcome this record-breaking crowd to Wrigley Field,” Chicago Red Stars president Karen Leetzow said.

“Chicago has truly shown the country what’s possible when we level the playing field with a centrally located stadium that is easy to access, and give these world-class athletes the support they deserve. Our club could not be prouder to call Chicago home tonight.

“This historic match is not just momentous for the Red Stars, but for the NWSL and the future of women’s professional soccer. Tonight, Chicago proved once again that fans are hungry to witness the intense level of competition that exists on the pitch every week in the NWSL and around the world.”

Bay FC defeated the Red Stars 2-1 in the first professional women’s sporting event in 80 years at Chicago’s historic ballpark, home of the Cubs.

The Red Stars draw only 4,848 fans per match at their normal home venue in Bridgeview, Ill., the lowest average in the league.

–Field Level Media