Hope Solo to Continue to Play Soccer for US Team Despite Domestic Abuse Charge

NFL has also come under fire for how they handle domestic abuse cases

While she awaits trial for domestic abuse charges, Hope Solo will continue to play for the U.S. women's national soccer team.

Sunil Gulati, the U.S. Soccer Federation president, released a statement defending the goalkeeper late last night explaining that while it takes "the issue of domestic violence very seriously," Solo will remain an active member on the team.

"From the beginning, we considered the information available and have taken a deliberate and thoughtful approach regarding Hope Solo's status with the national team," the statement began.

"Based on that information, U.S. Soccer stands by our decision to allow her to participate with the team as the legal process unfolds. If new information becomes available, we will carefully consider it."

Back in June, the two-time Olympic gold medalist was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence after allegedly attacking her 17-year-old nephew and adult sister at a family party at her house near Seattle.

She pleaded not guilty and was released from custody without having to post bail shortly after.

The judge ordered her to refrain from contacting either of the alleged victims and refrain from drinking alcohol.

Since then, she broke her silence with a heartfelt message on Facebook apologizing to "fans, teammates, coaches, marketing partners and the entire US Soccer and Seattle Reign FC communities" for her involvement in the "highly unfortunately incident."

She added, "I take seriously my responsibilities as a role model and sincerely apologize to everyone I have disappointed. I love my family dearly. We, like all families, have our challenges but my sincere hope is that we are able to resolve this situation as a family."

The U.S. Soccer Federation's decision has caused a stir amid the controversy surrounding the NFL and Ray Rice domestic abuse incident.

Many have come forward to say that Solo has received preferential treatment and that the sports world has held a double standard for the star athlete solely because she is a woman.

If convicted, Solo would face a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail or a fine of no more than $5,000.