Olympic Soccer Star Croix Bethune Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury

Washington Spirit midfielder Croix Bethune, who recently threw out the first pitch at a Nationals game, will miss the remainder of the NWSL season after suffering a torn meniscus in her knee.

Croix Bethune, the 23-year-old soccer star who recently made headlines for her ceremonial first pitch at a Nationals game, has suffered a season-ending knee injury.

Olympic Soccer Star Croix Bethune Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury

Bethune was selected by the Washington Spirit in the NWSL Draft in January and has quickly emerged as a key player for the team. In 17 games this season, she has scored five goals and provided 10 assists.

However, just one week after her memorable first pitch appearance at Nationals Park, the Spirit announced that Bethune had torn the meniscus in her knee "away from training." The injury requires surgery and rehabilitation, and she will not return to play in the NWSL this season.

Olympic Soccer Star Croix Bethune Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury

Bethune did not travel with the Spirit for their Sunday match against the San Diego Wave, and Spirit coach Jonatan Giráldez confirmed that she will not be available for the rest of the season.

"She had a problem making the first pitch in the baseball game," Giráldez said after the match. "She is not going to be available this season. It is part of life. You have to keep going."

Olympic Soccer Star Croix Bethune Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury

Bethune's injury is a significant blow to the Spirit, who are currently in contention for a playoff spot. The team will need to find a way to replace her production in the midfield, especially with just nine games remaining in the regular season.

Bethune's absence will also be felt by the U.S. women's national team. She was a member of the gold-medal winning team at the 2024 Paris Olympics and is expected to play a major role in the team's future.

The injury is a setback for Bethune's career, but she is expected to make a full recovery and return to the field next season. She will undoubtedly use this experience as motivation to come back stronger and prove that she is one of the best soccer players in the world.

In addition to her on-field accomplishments, Bethune has also become a role model for young girls and aspiring athletes. She is known for her positive attitude, her dedication to her craft, and her commitment to giving back to her community.

Despite the disappointment of her injury, Bethune remains optimistic about the future. She is focused on her rehabilitation and is determined to return to the field and continue to inspire others.