Olivia Moultrie’s 2026 season has been cut short after the Portland Thorns midfielder suffered a torn right ACL during training. The 20-year-old USNT star has been placed on the club’s season-ending injury list, bringing a premature end to an impressive NWSL campaign. Moultrie had started 15 of her 16 league appearances and produced five goals and as many assists before picking up the unfortunate injury. The setback also creates a major concern for the U.S. women’s national team.
With ACL rehabilitation often requiring a lengthy recovery, Moultrie is expected to miss the Concacaf W Championship later this year. Her availability for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup remains doubtful as well.
Olivia Moultrie Injury: Thorns Star Ruled Out For Season
The Thorns confirmed that Moultrie sustained the injury during a training session last week. The midfielder will now begin the rehabilitation process after being ruled out for the remainder of the NWSL campaign.
Portland president and general manager Jeff Agoos praised Moultrie’s determination and promised the club’s full support throughout her recovery.
“Olivia is one of the most driven players I have been around,” Agoos said.
Moultrie has been an important figure for Portland since joining the club in 2021. She made her NWSL debut at just 15 and helped the Thorns win the 2022 NWSL Championship. She also became the youngest player in league history to score a goal, aged 16.
Olivia Moultrie USWNT Future And 2027 World Cup Concern
The injury is equally significant for Olivia Moultrie’s international ambitions. She made her senior USWNT debut in December 2023 and has since collected 18 appearances and five goals. U.S. Soccer lists her as part of the current national-team player pool.
Moultrie also featured regularly for the USA in 2026. She started against Japan in April and was involved in the team’s June matches against Brazil.
Her latest setback means Moultrie will miss the Concacaf W Championship in November and December. More importantly, her recovery timeline could put her place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil under pressure.
For now, her priority is rehabilitation. Moultrie’s age and progress through the U.S. system offer reason for optimism, but the coming months will determine how quickly the youngster can return to competitive football.
