According to ESPN Soccer, the PSRA launched a scathing critique of MLS NEXT Pro over its handling of the incident, which took place immediately following Crew 2's Aug. 23 match against Huntsville City FC. The PSRA stated that Higuain squeezed the hand of the referee and refused to let go after being told three times to stop, and also made a demeaning, sexist remark. The incident occurred during the post-game handshake and resulted in Higuain being red carded. MLS NEXT Pro investigated the incident and Higuain was suspended for two games and ordered to take part in restorative practice training, which he has begun but not yet completed.
The PSRA is unhappy with the punishments handed out, claiming that they fall drastically short of the right message. The union stated that U.S. Soccer policy mandates a minimum three-game suspension for a "forceful grab" and that acts of discrimination also require a minimum three-game suspension. MLS NEXT Pro has defended its decision, stating that it believes in the restorative approach and is confident in its process and the results. The league also pointed out that the U.S. Soccer policy manual is explicit on the matter of penalties for assault towards referees, but does not make the minimum suspension mandatory.