Star player for the U.S. women`s national team, Trinity Rodman, has announced that the back problems she has been experiencing for several years are likely to be a long-term issue throughout her career. She expressed doubt that her back will ever be `100 percent` again.
Rodman made her first start of 2025 on Friday, contributing to the Washington Spirit`s 2-0 victory over Bay FC. This appearance came after a significant absence from the field due to back issues that initially arose during her rookie season with the Spirit in 2021. These problems resurfaced last September, sidelining her for almost a month. Although she returned for the Spirit`s playoff run, which culminated in a loss to the Orlando Pride in the NWSL Championship in November, Spirit coach Jonathan Giraldez chose to rest Rodman for the NWSL Challenge Cup earlier in the month. However, she has participated in all three regular season games so far and spoke on Friday about the persistent nature of her injury.
Speaking to reporters, Rodman stated, `Honestly, I don`t think my back will ever be 100 percent. It`s not related to one specific incident; it`s simply how my back is structured. It`s more about managing the condition than finding a complete cure. While we`ve managed it effectively, and I`m pleased with the progress, I don`t believe my back will ever return to its condition during my rookie year, which is unfortunate.`
This recurring back issue has caused Rodman to miss a considerable number of games at various points in her career, often at inconvenient times. Last season`s injury occurred after she played a vital role in the USWNT`s Olympic gold medal win and during an NWSL season where she was nominated for the MVP award.
Rodman continued, `It`s challenging for me, especially after such a successful season and the Olympics, to then face an injury and now attempt to regain my footing, role, and rhythm. After building such momentum, getting injured feels like starting over. It`s mentally tough because I can`t immediately return to the level I was at during the Olympics after recovering from injury. I`m focused on contributing as effectively as possible in a different capacity as I gradually build back up.`
Rodman`s USWNT Return
Rodman is now concentrating on her contributions to the USWNT, who are scheduled to play two matches against Brazil in April as part of their preparations for the 2027 Women`s World Cup. This marks her return to the national team roster since the Olympics, as coach Emma Hayes opted to give Rodman rest following a demanding season for both club and country. Hayes has also been instrumental in helping Rodman manage her back issues by consulting with specialists.
Rodman commented on Hayes` support at the NWSL media day in January, saying, `She`s been very open to my input and even proactively checks in on me, letting me know they are working behind the scenes to find experts to help with my back, as it`s a challenging injury area, unlike typical sports injuries below the knee. Her support and consideration for all of us have been really positive.`
Hayes is not planning to rush Rodman back into full action immediately. With the long lead-up to the World Cup, Hayes is using the games against Brazil as an opportunity to experiment with her less experienced squad. She acknowledged that Rodman may not be ready for a significant role in the upcoming friendly matches.
During a press conference last week, Hayes stated, `We are thrilled to have her back with us. However, we need to exercise caution due to her ongoing back issue. While she is progressing well, it`s easy to aggravate it. We need to find the right balance in camp to reintegrate her into the team while also managing her condition carefully, considering she has a long season ahead.`
