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.
How long will Trinity Rodman be out?
It’s unclear how long Trinity Rodman will be out, as tests still need to determine the extent of her injury.
However, given how the scene played out on the pitch, there are fears Rodman could be facing a long-term layoff.
The worst-case scenario is a torn ACL, which could sideline her for a year or more. Even if she avoids that nightmare, an MCL or meniscus tear could still require surgery and keep her out for several months.
It’s almost certain Rodman will be unavailable for the USWNT’s upcoming friendlies against Portugal and New Zealand. She had just been named to the national team roster for the first time since April after finally recovering from a lingering back injury.
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."