Christen Press makes a triumphant return to soccer after two years out due to injury

Christen Press's return to the pitch was a story worthy of a movie. After 782 days out due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, Press returned to show the soccer world that her journey was far from over. Angel City FC's match against San Diego Wave FC in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup ended goalless in regulation time, but it was on penalties that her team prevailed, winning 5-3, and Press made her mark, leading the team to victory and qualification for the semi-finals.

Since suffering the injury in June 2022, Press has undergone a long and arduous recovery, facing four surgeries and countless physiotherapy sessions. The road back wasn't easy, but her determination and passion for soccer kept her going. When she finally stepped on the pitch again, in the 89th minute of the game against the San Diego Wave, the stadium was filled with emotion. The crowd applauded loudly, aware of the significance of that moment not just for Press, but for the sport as a whole.

"I just ran on the field for the last five minutes, but I was the one who did it," said Press after the game, visibly moved. "I really see this as the start of the next part of my journey." These words reflect the resilience and willpower that define her. For many, five minutes on the pitch may not seem like much, but for Press, those minutes represented the culmination of a long battle against adversity.

The game, which had been a constant test for both teams, came down to penalties, where Press had the chance to shine. When she stepped up to take Angel City's second penalty, the silence in the stadium was deafening. Expectation was in the air and the pressure was immense. However, with the coolness and skill that have always characterized her, Press sent the ball into the bottom left-hand corner of the goal, sending the fans into delirium and her teammates into an effusive celebration.

"It was a lot of emotion, so many ups and downs over the last two years. Definitely moments when I didn't think I'd make it. Sometimes as athletes, wherever you are, you're looking for the next medal and I was trying so hard this week to be there and know that it was very symbolic. Like I just ran on the field for the last five minutes, but I was the one who did it," said Press.

Angel City coach Becki Tweed also commented on Press's return, highlighting the importance of this moment not only for the player, but for the whole team.
"I was so shocked. She was ready and it was finding the right moment for her and the team to put her on the pitch. I asked her if she was ready and she didn't even move. I think it was a perfect night for her."

For Press, the return to the pitch was more than just a return to soccer. It was a personal victory, a symbol of perseverance and determination. She was inspired by the greats of the sport, such as Lionel Messi, to find strength and confidence in her journey.

"When I went up, I thought about how athletes are receptacles and how we have this idea of turning humans into idols. When you think of the best athletes in the world, like Messi, he's a receptacle and everyone believes in him. He transmits that. It takes the pressure off you. So I was reminding myself that I am a receptacle."

Press's influence at Angel City goes beyond his skills on the pitch. His presence is a source of inspiration for his teammates, especially in high-pressure moments like penalty shoot-outs. Coach Tweed highlighted how Press has helped the team deal with the pressure, giving them space to express themselves and enjoy the game. "Everyone strives for perfection," said Tweed, who added: "That's why they are what they are. So, by giving them this space to express themselves and take the pressure off them when they come into the pits, we knew it was a chance to gain experience. I asked them to really enjoy the game, enjoy each other, enjoy the fight."

Christen Press' triumphant return is a powerful reminder of what is possible with determination and passion. His recovery and his performance on the pitch are an inspiration to all who face adversity, showing that with resilience, any obstacle can be overcome. Angel City FC now move on to the semi-finals of the Summer Cup, and with Press back in the side.