U.S. Olympian Croix Bethune's promising season with the Washington Spirit has come to an abrupt end due to a meniscus tear in her knee. The 23-year-old will miss the remainder of the National Women's Soccer League campaign after suffering the injury during a ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game.
Washington Spirit midfielder Croix Bethune's remarkable start to her NWSL career has been put on hold due to a season-ending knee injury. The 23-year-old, who joined the Spirit in January's NWSL Draft, has been a revelation this season, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists in just 17 games.
Season-Ending Injury for Washington Spirit's Croix Bethune
Bethune's impressive performances earned her the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at the Washington Nationals' game against the New York Yankees on August 28th. However, the moment turned sour as Bethune grimaced slightly as she walked off the mound.
Just one week later, the Spirit announced that Bethune had torn the meniscus in her knee during a non-training-related incident. The injury is a significant setback for both Bethune and the Spirit, who are currently fourth in the NWSL standings and in contention for a playoff spot.
Season-Ending Injury for Washington Spirit's Croix Bethune
Bethune will undergo rehabilitation for the injury but will not recover in time to participate in the Spirit's remaining nine games of the season. The news is particularly disappointing for the young player, who was beginning to establish herself as one of the most exciting prospects in the NWSL.
"She had a problem making the first pitch in the baseball game," Spirit coach Jonatan Giráldez said after the team's 1-1 draw with the San Diego Wave on Sunday. "She is not going to be available this season. It is part of life. You have to keep going."
Season-Ending Injury for Washington Spirit's Croix Bethune
Bethune's absence will create a void in the Spirit's midfield, where she has been a key playmaker. She joins fellow Olympian Trinity Rodman, who is also currently sidelined with an injury, on the Spirit's injury list.
Despite the setbacks, the Spirit remain optimistic about their playoff hopes. They have a talented roster, which includes U.S. national team defender Emily Sonnett and Brazilian midfielder Diany. The team will need to step up in Bethune's absence if they want to secure a top-four finish and a chance to compete for the NWSL championship.
Bethune's injury is a reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with professional sports. The setback is a tough pill to swallow for the promising young player, but she has shown resilience in the past and will undoubtedly return even stronger from this adversity.
The Spirit will honor Bethune alongside fellow Olympians Rodman, Casey Krueger, and Hal Hershfelt at their next home match on September 10th. The team and its fans will undoubtedly rally around Bethune during her recovery and look forward to her return next season.
