Cindy Parlow Cone, a former US international, has taken charge of the under-fire organisation following Cordeiro's decision to step down and becomes the first female President in the history of the body.

The papers filed by US Soccer said female players had less physical ability and responsibility than men, prompting widespread criticism from players, board members and sponsors.

They claimed the job of a footballer on the men's team "requires a higher level of skill based on speed and strength".

Members of the US women's team protested by turning their training tops inside-out during the warm-up before their SheBelieves Cup match with Japan in Texas.

Megan Rapinoe, one of the stars of the American squad which won the Women's World Cup last year, said US Soccer had been "blatantly misogynistic and sexist".

Rapinoe also said the players "don't buy" an apology from Cordeiro, elected President of US Soccer for a four-year term in February 2018.

Cordeiro reportedly resigned without informing US Soccer's communications staff and quit following discussions with the organisation's board.

He claimed he had not read the papers in full and said he "takes responsibility" for failing to do so.

"My one and only mission has always been to do what is best for our federation," said Cordeiro.

"The arguments and language contained in this week's legal filing caused great offence and pain, especially to our extraordinary women's national team players who deserve better.

"It has been an incredible privilege to serve as the President of US Soccer."

The gender equality lawsuit against US Soccer was filed by a collective of 28 women's players in March last year, and the trial is expected to begin on May 5.