U.S. Women's National Team star Trinity Rodman has revealed that she doesn't believe her back will ever fully recover from the issues that have plagued her since her rookie season. The 22-year-old forward, who played a crucial role in the USWNT's gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics, made the candid admission following Washington Spirit's 2-0 win over Bay FC on Friday.
"Honestly, I don't think my back will ever be 100 percent," Rodman told reporters after the match. "It's kind of an issue of it's not one specific thing, it's just the way that my back's structured. And it's more so management than like a curable fix."
Rodman has been battling back spasms since joining the Washington Spirit in 2021. The situation worsened last September when she reaggravated the injury during a match against the Kansas City Current, resulting in the young star being wheelchaired off the pitch.
Despite the ongoing issues, Rodman has maintained an impressive international career, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists in 45 appearances for the national team. She was particularly effective during the Olympic tournament in Paris, netting three goals as part of the formidable "Triple Espresso" attacking trio alongside Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson (formerly Smith).
"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," Rodman added, highlighting the chronic nature of her condition.
The injury has kept Rodman sidelined from international duty since the Olympics, but she has recently been recalled to the national team for Emma Hayes' April camp, which features two friendly matches against Brazil.
"It's tough for me coming off such a good season and the Olympics and then going into an injury and now trying to find my place again and find my role and find my rhythm," Rodman explained following Friday's club victory.
The international break begins Monday, with Rodman reporting for national team duty ahead of matches against Brazil scheduled for Saturday, April 5, and Tuesday, April 8. These games will provide an opportunity for Rodman to reestablish herself in the national team setup under new coach Emma Hayes, despite her ongoing back concerns.
