U.S. women’s soccer team already cashing in on gold medals

LONDON -- The U.S. women’s soccer team made no secret of the fact that Thursday’s gold-medal showdown with Japan was a grudge match since Japan beat the Americans in penalty kicks in last summer’s World Cup final.

And, after their 2-1 win before a crowd of more than 80,000 at Wembley Stadium, the women learned that payback can make you rich.

That’s because each U.S. athlete who wins a gold medal in the London Games gets a cash reward of $25,000 from the United States Olympic Committee.

PHOTOS: London Olympics, Day 14

But in addition to that, U.S. Soccer is giving the team an additional $1.5 million to divide however the players want.

And speaking of rewards, the team also heard from President Obama, who went on Twitter to give his reaction to the game shortly after it finished.

“Congrats to the U.S. women’s soccer team,� he tweeted “for a third straight Olympic gold. So proud. –bo�

ALSO:

London Olympics: What to watch for on Friday

U.S. women’s basketball team rallies to defeat Australia

American Clareesa Shields wins gold medal in women’s boxing