Croix Bethune Returns After Long Injury Layoff

According to ESPN, Washington Spirit midfielder Croix Bethune has returned to the pitch after suffering a meniscus injury that sidelined her for eight months.

The Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalist with the United States national football team sustained the injury while throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a Washington Nationals MLB game — a moment that altered the trajectory of her career.

“I feel about 90% recovered. I had some hip and thigh issues that gave me more time to strengthen my knee. Overall, I’m at about 90–95% now,” said Bethune.

The 24-year-old delivered a stellar performance in the 2024 season, recording:

• 5 goals and 10 assists in 17 matches
• NWSL Rookie of the Year award
• Four-time Rookie of the Month
• Three-time Best XI of the Month
• Midfielder of the Year honor

Washington Spirit assistant coach Adrian Gonzalez welcomed Bethune’s return — a valuable boost for the squad, which is still dealing with 10 injured players, including Casey Krueger and Andi Sullivan, who are currently on maternity leave.