Looks like fate isn’t keen to stop throwing curveball at Trinity Rodman. Already having edged past the battle of her unfortunate back injury a while back ago, the Washington Spirit forward is now facing a fresh challenge in form of a sprained MCL, which she sustained during her team’s 4-0 win over Monterrey in the fifth round of the Concacaf W Champions Cup last week. As it leaves no choice for Rodman but to make yet another bounce back, the talented forward was able to share a crucial update for her fans.

Hours ago, Trinity Rodman took to Instagram to share a short clip of herself doing rehabilitation exercises in gym. The Spirit winger was seen wearing a large, Iron Man–like prototype on her right leg, actually a mechanical medical support designed to reduce pressure on her knee. Trin also appeared to be using a stick for balance while performing light exercises. As she went through the routine, she captioned the clip, “Learning how to trust GOD’S timing,” reflecting nothing but her strong mentality and resilience to trust the process.

Though Rodman’s return timeline was initially uncertain, it was confirmed the following day that she is expected back in about three weeks. In fact, before the Spirit’s NWSL matchday 25 clash with Orlando Pride, head coach Adrian Gonzalez said that the club will monitor her progress carefully, day by day, describing it as the “best-case scenario” for now. “It’s not as bad as it could be. She’s starting rehab now. It’s not too big, too much, but we need to see how she’s doing today, start the rehab today, and try to support her in this situation,” added Gonzales.

Notably, Rodman’s injury occurred in the 37th minute after a challenge with Monterrey’s Daniela Monroy near the touchline, leaving her in visible pain as she signaled for medical help. Unable to put weight on her right leg, she was replaced and was later spotted on crutches with a knee brace. Thankfully, despite the setback, the Spirit powered through as Croix Bethune opened the scoring, followed by goals from Rosemonde Kouassi, Gift Monday, and an own goal from Valeria del Campo sent Washington to the top of Group B and into the semifinals.

Perhaps the most unfortunate fact about this injury was its timing; since her last featuring for the US women’s national team, Emma Hayes decided to call the Newport Beach native for the upcoming October window, where they play a double header against Portugal, followed by one against New Zealand. However, this latest blow only saw her getting removed from the team, forcing Rodman to focus on herself. Speaking of which, who has the USWNT taken this news?

No Trinity Rodman, no problem for USWNT!

After announcing the roster for this month, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes had expressed her excitement to welcome back Trinity Rodman. However, tragedy stuck, forcing the English tactician to omit the 2024 Olympian. Sadly, she wasn’t alone, with Seattle Reign midfielder Sam Meza also leaving the squad after the federation stated that the midfielder is suffering from a “mild hamstring strain.”

Now, you must be thinking about the replacements. Well, Hayes has brought one, but not specifically a direct one, at least. Its Kansas City Current midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta. She received her first national team call-up during the late May–early June international window, appearing in games against China and Jamaica. Given how not one but two players were forced out of the team, it was only natural for Hayes to take this step.

Hopefully, by the time the USWNT reconvenes for their November window, we will see Rodman back in the mix. The same goes for the Washington Spirit, who will be hoping for the return of their star player before the NWSL playoffs begin. For now, however, all we can do is keep our fingers crossed.