Croix Bethune’s remarkable rookie season came to an unexpected halt as she suffered a torn meniscus while throwing out the first pitch at a Washington Nationals game last week. This unfortunate injury now requires surgery and has placed Bethune on the season-ending injury list, according to a statement released by the Washington Spirit on Wednesday.
The Spirit’s head coach, Jonatan Giráldez, revealed that the injury occurred during the ceremonial first pitch. He expressed his disappointment, stating, “She had a problem making the first pitch in the baseball game. She is not going to be available this season. It is part of life. You have to keep going.”
Despite this setback, 23-year-old Bethune has achieved more in her rookie season than many players accomplish in their entire careers. She was selected third overall in the 2023 NWSL Draft, with Washington making a significant trade to acquire her. Bethune quickly established herself as a starter following Ashley Sanchez’s departure, earning Rookie of the Month honors for three consecutive months, a rare feat in NWSL history.
Her impressive performances also caught the attention of the United States women’s national team, leading to her inclusion as a training player and eventually earning a spot as an alternate for the 2024 Olympics. Bethune made a memorable appearance off the bench during the Games, contributing to the USWNT’s gold-medal success.
Despite facing another setback due to her knee injury, Bethune remains a strong contender for the NWSL Rookie of the Year award. Her impressive statistics, including five goals and 10 assists in just over 1,300 minutes of play, demonstrate her undeniable talent on the field. Additionally, her dedication to rehabilitation and recovery, along with the support of the Washington Spirit’s medical staff, will contribute to her successful return to the field in the future.
As fans eagerly anticipate her comeback, Bethune’s resilience and determination continue to inspire others both on and off the field. We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her shine once again in the NWSL.
