5 Women’s football stars who have injured their ACLs

Chelsea's Sam Kerr became the latest to suffer an ACL injury, further highlighting the problem with that particular injury in the women's game

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries have been a significant challenge in women's football, affecting the careers of many top players.

These injuries are not only physically debilitating but also impact team dynamics and strategies. Let's delve deeper into the cases of five high-profile women's football stars who have suffered from ACL injuries.

Sam Kerr (Chelsea, Forward)

Sam Kerr, an Australian international and a star forward for Chelsea, is renowned for her agility and scoring prowess. Her injury was a substantial setback for both her club and the national team. 

Kerr's dynamic style, characterized by quick movements and sharp turns, makes her particularly susceptible to knee injuries like the ACL. Her absence will be felt profoundly in Chelsea's attacking lineup, where her ability to convert chances into goals is unparalleled.

Leah Williamson (Arsenal, Defender/Midfielder)

Leah Williamson, who plays for Arsenal and the England national team, has been pivotal in both defence and midfield roles. Her ACL injury was a major blow to her teams, given her versatility and leadership on the field. Williamson's role extends beyond just physical play; she is integral in setting up play and organising the defence. 

Her injury necessitated significant tactical adjustments from her managers at both the club and national levels.

Alexia Putellas (Barcelona)

Just months before being named the 2022 women’s player of the year at both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best Awards, Barcelona Femeni star Alexia Putellas suffered a terrible ACL rupture while Spain were preparing for the European Championships.

Putellas was forced to miss nearly all of Barcelona’s 2022/23 campaign as well as Spain’s Euros campaign, with the unfortunate injury occurring just days before the start of the latter.

The sensational midfielder was back on the pitch at the end of the 2022/23 season, playing in the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League against Wolfsburg as Barcelona claimed their second European title.

Beth Mead (Arsenal, Forward)

Beth Mead, another Arsenal player and a key figure in the England national team, suffered an ACL injury impacting her club and country. Mead is known for her exceptional goal-scoring and play-making abilities. 

Her injury deprived Arsenal and England of a forward who could consistently threaten the opposition's goal. Mead's absence also meant a loss of creativity in the attacking third, where her ability to create scoring opportunities is highly valued.

Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal, Forward)

Vivianne Miedema, a top forward for both Arsenal and the Netherlands national team, faced an ACL injury that sidelined her for an extended period. Miedema's injury was particularly concerning given her status as one of the world's best strikers. 

Her goal-scoring record and ability to link play make her an irreplaceable asset for her team. Her absence was a significant challenge for the team's offensive strategies.

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