Trinity Rodman’s back issues have haunted her since her 2021 NWSL debut season, a persistent shadow on her electrifying career. After a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the injury flared up again, forcing her off the field in a wheelchair during an NWSL match. Recently, the soccer star, sidelined by a nagging injury, was spotted courtside in Germany cheering for her tennis pro boyfriend. The internet erupted with whispers—Is Trinity Rodman more focused on being a WAG than getting back on the pitch? But the Washington Spirit’s dynamic forward isn’t here for the noise.

The injury was a gut-punch for fans and Rodman alike, who had just begun to hit her stride this season with four NWSL appearances and a triumphant return to the U.S. women’s national team in April. Her comeback moment? A blistering goal just six minutes into the USWNT’s 2-0 win over Brazil, celebrated with a cheeky nod to her injury, clutching her back and limping with a mock grimace. Vintage Trinity.

In a fiery Instagram post, Rodman clapped back, writing, “Yes, I’m grinding almost every day in pt to get back on the field… NO, I’m not just being a wag and vacationing:) thank you.” At 23, Rodman’s not just fighting a recurring back injury—she’s battling the narrative that she’s not all-in on her recovery. But the road back hasn’t been smooth. After her latest NWSL appearance on April 12, the back injury resurfaced, sidelining her indefinitely. Hours after the Spirit announced the setback, Rodman was seen in Germany at the BMW Open, rooting for her boyfriend, tennis star Ben Shelton.

It was only last month that the Washington Spirit came out with a statement saying that Rodman was taking a break from her soccer duties to work on her back injury. Her agent, Mike Senkowski, clarified to The Washington Post that the USWNT star would be meeting the Washington Spirit’s doctor in London, assuring that “she will return as soon as she’s healthy.” Following that, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes offered a glimmer of hope this week, saying Rodman is “heading in the right direction” but she stopped short of predicting a return date. The uncertainty stings for USWNT, but it’s not like they don’t have people to fall back on.

Trinity Rodman, Sophia Wilson, and Mallory Swanson all out of USWNT squad for friendlies vs China

Emma Hayes is shaking things up with the USWNT, and her latest squad for friendlies against China and Jamaica is proof she’s all in on the youth movement. Even with the “Triple Espresso” trio—Trinity Rodman, Sophia Wilson, and Mallory Swanson—sidelined, the attack is looking fresh and fearless. Rodman’s nursing a back injury, while Wilson and Swanson are expecting, leaving the door wide open for young guns like Ally Sentnor, Michelle Cooper, Alyssa Thompson, and Emma Sears to shine. Even Alyssa’s younger sister, Gisele, is getting in on the action, listed among the forwards. Four of the seven strikers are under 22, signaling Hayes’ trust in the next generation to carry the torch.

But it’s not all about the kids. Naomi Girma, fresh off a dazzling season with Chelsea where she helped clinch the FA Cup and a historic treble, is back to anchor the defense. Speaking of returns, Lynn Biyendolo is back in the fold after missing April’s matches, and Portland Thorns’ Olivia Moultrie earns a call-up after a year away.

Hayes is also rolling the dice on some new faces. Orlando Pride’s Kerry Abello and KC Current’s Lo’eau LaBonta, who at 32 could become the oldest USWNT debutant, bring fresh energy. The midfield mixes veterans like Sam Coffey and Lindsey Heaps with youngsters like Moultrie, Lily Yohannes, and Claire Hutton, plus LaBonta’s NWSL grit. The goalkeeper spot is a wildcard—Claudia Dickey, Mandy McGlynn, and Phallon Tullis-Joyce have just four caps combined, so expect some nerves and maybe some magic.

The USWNT faces China on May 31 at Allianz Field in Minnesota, then Jamaica on June 3 at St. Louis City SC’s Energizer Park. With this blend of youth, experience, and new blood, Hayes is clearly building something special. Buckle up—it’s gonna be a fun ride.