Washington Spirit’s rookie standout and U.S. women’s soccer Olympian Croix Bethune is out for the rest of the NWSL season after suffering a torn meniscus following her ceremonial first pitch at a Washington Nationals game. The injury occurred shortly after Bethune was honored, along with three other Olympians, for her participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Spirit confirmed the bad news in a statement on Wednesday, clarifying that Bethune’s injury happened “away from training.” Head coach Jonatan Girldez mentioned that the injury was connected to her appearance at the baseball game.

“She had a problem making the first pitch the other day at the baseball game,” he told reporters. Unfortunately, the injury means Bethune won’t be returning to the field this season.

A Stellar Rookie year cut short

Bethune was having an extraordinary rookie campaign. In just 17 games, the midfielder had already tied the NWSL rookie record for most assists in a single season with 10 and netted five goals. Her outstanding performances had made her a strong contender for both Rookie of the Year and MVP honors.

The unfortunate injury couldn’t have come at a worse time for Bethune or the Spirit. The team, currently in a tight race for playoff positioning, will have to continue their push without their star playmaker. The 22-year-old’s creativity and attacking presence had been key for the team, and her absence leaves a big gap to fill in their remaining eight games.

Bethune was selected third overall in the 2023 NWSL Draft and made a strong impression in her first professional season, even earning a spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team roster during their gold-medal run in Paris. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Spirit aim for a deep playoff run.