Emma Hayes was thrilled to finally have Trinity Rodman back in the USWNT squad.
“She’s one of the best players in the world,” the U.S. head coach said after releasing the October roster, which included Rodman for the first time since April. “So I’m, of course, super excited that she’s back.”
Unfortunately, the wait may go on a little longer.
After returning to form following a back injury, the USWNT star suffered a potentially serious knee injury while playing for the Washington Spirit — one that could sideline her for an extended period.
The Sporting News breaks down what happened to Rodman and how long she might be out.
MORE: USWNT roster, squad for October friendlies vs. Portugal, New Zealand
Trinity Rodman news, updates after knee injury
In the 41st minute of the Washington Spirit’s match against Mexican club Monterrey in their CONCACAF W Champions Cup group stage finale, Trinity Rodman suffered an apparent knee injury.
The 23-year-old had attempted a tackle near the touchline, and had to be helped to her feet by medical staff. She was unable to put any weight on her right leg, and was seen in tears once she reached the Spirit bench.
Rodman went to the locker room on crutches at halftime, and was seen on the field after the match with a brace on her knee while still using the crutches.
The Washington Spirit coaching staff did not give an update after the match, deferring to the impending tests.
On Thursday, The Athletic reported that Rodman is dealing with a right knee injury that will sideline her for the U.S. women’s national team’s friendlies against Portugal and New Zealand next week. However, she reportedly could still possibly return this year.
How long will Trinity Rodman be out?
The Athletic reported Thursday that Rodman “could still possibly return this year,” although she’ll miss the U.S. national team’s friendlies vs. Portugal and New Zealand. Rodman reportedly underwent “initial scans” that showed a “positive long-term prognosis.”
Per The Athletic, Rodman is set to “roughly” have a three-week rehab process before being reevaluated. She has reportedly not been ruled out for a return this season.
Rodman had just been named to the national team roster for the first time since April after finally recovering from a lingering back injury. While she has reportedly avoided a major, long-term injury, she will be out for the upcoming national matches.
Rodman had just returned from back injury
The knee injury is especially cruel as Rodman had only just returned from a back injury that she says could stay with her for the rest of her career.
“I’m just happy to be back and actually in team training and not coming back on the side from step one,” Rodman said in late July having finally returned to the pitch.
The 23-year-old has dealt with back spasms since her first professional season in 2021, and the situation worsened in September of 2024 when she suffered a severe spasm on the pitch, having to leave the field in a wheelchair.
“I was in pain all the time,” Rodman said of her recovery process. “Working through that was difficult.”
