On Friday, U.S. women’s national team captain Becky Sauerbrunn announced on social media that she will miss the upcoming World Cup in Australia and New Zealand due to a lingering foot injury. With only days left before players report to camp ahead of the tournament, this news is devastating to the United States, which is looking to earn a historic third consecutive championship.
“Heartbroken isn’t even the half of it,” she wrote. “But that’s sports for you and that’s life, really.
“I had hoped and worked and hoped some more to make it back in time to help lead the team at this World Cup, but after lots of discussion, unfortunately, there’s just too much variability in my return to play timeline. So, I’ll be home, working as hard as I can to get back on the field as quickly as I can.”
The World Cup roster isn’t officially released yet — it is expected on Wednesday — but there’s plenty to discuss regarding what steps the U.S. might take to try to fill the void left by the veteran defender.
