U.S. women’s national team star Trinity Rodman has revealed that a persistent back injury is likely to hinder her from achieving optimal health again. The 22-year-old athlete expressed her concerns about the long-term effects of this injury on her career.
Rodman’s back troubles date back to her rookie season with the Washington Spirit in 2021. The situation worsened last September when she had to be wheeled off the field during a match against Kansas City, shortly after contributing to the U.S. women’s triumphant “Triple Espresso” front line alongside Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson, which secured the team’s fifth Olympic gold medal in Paris.
“I don’t think my back will ever be the way it was my rookie year, which is unfortunate,” Rodman shared. “It’s tough for me coming off such a successful season and the Olympics, then facing this injury and trying to rediscover my place and rhythm on the field. I had built up so much momentum only to be sidelined.”
The mental aspect of her recovery has proven to be just as challenging. Rodman reflects on the pressure of not being the same player she was during the Olympics, where she scored three out of the ten goals for her team. This emotional weight adds another layer to her rehabilitation process.
After missing both the U.S. team’s January camp and the recent SheBelieves Cup tournament, Rodman returned to her club team earlier this month for a National Women’s Soccer League match, eager to regain her form.
Recently, U.S. coach Emma Hayes included Rodman in a 24-player roster ahead of two friendly matches against Brazil next month. Hayes has emphasized a cautious approach to Rodman’s return, a sentiment that Rodman shares as she carefully navigates her comeback.
“I’m trying to contribute in the best way I can while adapting to my current situation as I work my way back,” Rodman stated, demonstrating her resilience and determination to re-establish herself on the field.
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