Canada Jordyn Huitema sidelined for NWSL season after ACL tear

Canadian forward Jordyn Huitema of Seattle Reign FC will miss the remainder of the NWSL season after tearing the ACL in her left knee during a match on Saturday, March 15, 2025. The injury, sustained in a game against Angel City, was confirmed by the Chicago Stars on Tuesday, casting doubt on her availability for next summer's FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Huitema was seen sprinting to the ball against NJ/NY Gotham FC in Seattle, captured by John Froschauer/AP, illustrating her impact early in the first half. The Canadian international, a Chilliwack, B.C. native, contributed to Reign’s attacking play.

In the second half, Huitema collided with an Angel City defender, resulting in a torn ACL on her left knee. She will undergo surgery, as announced by the Chicago Stars on Tuesday. The forward finished her first season in Chicago with four goals in 12 starts.

The ACL injury ends her NWSL campaign, leaving the Reign without her for the rest of the season. Her 98 caps for Canada, 24 goals and seven assists, and her role in the 2021 Olympic gold, now raise questions about her fitness for the World Cup starting June 24 in Brazil.

Huitema posted on Instagram, “Finding out I tore my ACL has been heartbreaking… Soccer has given me so much, and having it taken away, even temporarily, hurts more than I can put into words.” Canada has never advanced past the quarterfinals at the World Cup.