Soccer Players Nix Pact

Nine veterans of the U.S. women’s World Cup team, including three-time player of the year Mia Hamm, have rejected contracts from the U.S. Soccer Federation.

The dispute, over bonuses for the Olympics and other tournaments, raises doubts about the United States’ chances for a medal at next summer’s Atlanta Games.

Joining Hamm are captain Carla Overbeck, leading goal scorer Michelle Akers, Joy Fawcett, Julie Foudy, Carin Gabarra, Kristine Lilly, Briana Scurry and Tisha Venturini.

All were under contract in 1995 and each was extended an opportunity by the USSF to return as full-time national team players through September 1996, but all offers have been withdrawn.

Major League Soccer said its inaugural season in 1995 will start April 6 when Washington plays at San Jose.

Each of the 10 teams will play 32 games plus two exhibiton games against foreign opponents.