Heartwarming Reunion in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, the excitement was palpable as Trinity Rodman spotted fellow U.S. Women’s National Team player Mallory Swanson amidst a bustling hotel conference. The two embraced joyfully, marking a heartwarming reunion. Shortly after, Sophia Wilson arrived, bringing together the trio known informally as “Triple Espresso” for their first gathering since they clinched the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Transformative Year for the Athletes
The past year has been transformative for these athletes. While Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson took time off to start their families, Rodman contended with injuries before entering negotiations for a new contract with the Washington Spirit, which plays in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). As they gear up for Women’s World Cup qualifying this November, fans can expect to see all three players back on the field together for the national team, in addition to representing their individual NWSL sides.
Admiration and Anticipation
Rodman expressed admiration for her teammates’ strength, especially noting Wilson’s impressive return to form after childbirth.
“I’m in awe of all of the moms,”
Rodman remarked during the Los Angeles event, eagerly anticipating their future collaboration in training camps.
Personal Journeys of Motherhood
Wilson, who welcomed her daughter Gianna in September, aims to participate in the Portland Thorns’ season opener set for mid-March. She also hopes to earn playing time with the national team during the upcoming SheBelieves Cup.
“Those are my girls. Even off the field, those are my sisters,”
Wilson shared. Reflections on shared journeys of motherhood between her and Swanson added a personal touch to their narrative, signaling the strong bond they share.
Navigating Motherhood and Fitness
Swanson recently welcomed her daughter Josie and is navigating the early days of motherhood, commonly known as the “newborn bubble.” She is focused on regaining her fitness to rejoin the Chicago Stars, although U.S. Coach Emma Hayes stated that a timeline for her return to the national team remains uncertain.
“It’s about completing phases and taking it week by week,”
Swanson explained.
Challenges and Future Prospects
In the last season, Rodman faced challenges with injuries, resulting in limited play, including just one match with the national team. Following her free agency status at season’s end, uncertainty loomed over her future with the Spirit until a new contract was recently finalized. The NWSL instated a new policy allowing clubs to exceed salary caps for select players, a move that was met with scrutiny from the players’ association for lacking prior negotiation.
Meanwhile, Wilson confirmed her presence with the Thorns after exercising her player option, cementing her future with the club, while Swanson’s contract with the Stars extends through 2028. Rodman’s recent contract, made possible by the NWSL’s “High Impact Player” rule, will span three years.
Looking Ahead
Despite being away from the national team during a period of talent evaluation, Wilson expressed enthusiasm about the emergence of new players and the positive developments within the squad. As Rodman captained a younger team to a win against Paraguay in January, she shared Wilson’s excitement for reuniting on the field with her favorite teammates.
“I’m just so excited to be back playing with Trin and Mal,”
Wilson said, looking ahead with optimism.
