Back in September 2024, U.S. women's national team and Washington Spirit star Trinity Rodman suffered a back injury during her club team's loss to the Kansas City Current. She played again that season, but apparently as a player who never fully recovered.
Fast forward to Friday, when ESPN reported that Rodman spoke to the media after the game, and she said, "I don't think my back will ever be 100 percent."
Such a statement was shocking but also not surprising.
"It's kind of an issue of it's not one specific thing, it's just the way that my back's structured," Rodman added. "And it's more so management than like a curable fix. So I think we've managed it really well and I'm happy with the progression that we've had. But for me, I don't think my back will ever be the way it was my rookie year, which is unfortunate."
Trinity Rodman might have to adjust her game
Major back injuries can impact someone for the rest of their lives. That is why it was not surprising to hear that Rodman is managing her injury and pain. Regardless, such news is sad to hear -- especially from someone as young as the 22-year-old Rodman -- and puts into question what the rest of her career will be like. She is still one of the best players in the NWSL, but it might be possible that her back will limit her from reaching her ultimate mountain top.
The forward even alluded to this potential new reality. "I'm trying to play the role as best I can and still be effective in a different way as I build back up into it," she said.
Since the injury, Rodman has not scored or registered an assist in the NWSL. She was also not called up to the USWNT until she was included on the squad for its April friendlies against Brazil.
As such, is the Washington player implying that she will not be the threatening winger that she has been early in her career? That appears to be the case, and it's even possible she could be forced into a position switch. That could bring a tragic halt to the dynamic Triple Espresso of Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson in the USWNT far too soon. Smith is out this season due to her pregnancy, but Rodman might have to adjust where she plays in the lineup.
Of course, it is possible things can improve, and Rodman will be able to play at her personal expected level. Anything can happen, and she's still a young player without much experience recovering from injuries of any sort, potentially clouding her outlook. And even 80% or 90% of what she was before is still exceptional. After all, she was one of the top players in 2024.
Ideally, she will find herself on the pitch and help her team and the USWNT. It must be considered though, and it hurts to say it, that Rodman might have already reached the prime of her career.