Trinity Rodman Makes Triumphant Return with Last-Minute Winner for Washington Spirit

After months away from the field, Trinity Rodman made her long-anticipated comeback with a storybook performance that thrilled fans and marked a pivotal moment in her career. On Sunday at Audi Field, the 23-year-old forward stepped back onto the pitch for the Washington Spirit and delivered a dramatic game-winning goal in second-half stoppage time—securing a 2-1 victory over the Portland Thorns.

Rodman’s last appearance came on April 12, following an aggravation of a lingering back injury that has troubled her since her rookie season. In just her first game back after a four-month absence, she proved her star power and resilience by scoring the deciding goal in the 92nd minute, lighting up the stadium with her brilliance.

What happened during Trinity Rodman’s comeback match?

Trinity Rodman’s impact was immediate and unforgettable. Entering the match in the 76th minute with the score locked at 1-1, she brought fresh energy to a team eager for a spark. The Spirit had taken an early lead thanks to Gift Monday, but that was erased by Portland’s Olivia Moultrie just before halftime.

With tension building and both sides pressing for a winner, it was Rodman who stole the spotlight. A critical turnover on the left wing by Courtney Brown set up a sharp cross into the box. Croix Bethune redirected it, leaving Rodman unmarked at the back post. Without hesitation, she struck a powerful half-volley that rocketed into the net—sending fans into a frenzy and sealing the win in Washington’s first NWSL match since the summer break.

Trinity Rodman’s injury timeline and return to the U.S. Women’s National Team

Rodman has been battling recurring back issues, which have intermittently sidelined her since her debut professional season. After undergoing an intensive rehabilitation during the offseason, she began 2025 with cautious optimism. Unfortunately, the injury resurfaced after just four matches, forcing another extended break.

Despite her limited time on the pitch this year, Rodman was called back into the U.S. Women’s National Team earlier in 2025. She made a single appearance in a friendly against Brazil in April, where she also scored—highlighting her enduring form and readiness for top-tier competition.

Her performance on Sunday not only signals a turning point in her physical recovery but also reasserts her importance as a key figure for both club and country. With the NWSL playoff race heating up and international competitions on the horizon, Rodman’s resurgence could not come at a better time.

Why Trinity Rodman’s return matters for the Spirit and U.S. soccer

Trinity Rodman isn’t just a rising star—she’s one of the most marketable and exciting talents in American soccer today. Her return is significant not only for the Washington Spirit, who are fighting for playoff positioning, but also for the broader growth and visibility of women’s soccer in the United States.

As a young player with experience on the world stage and a high media profile, her presence boosts fan engagement, media interest, and on-field results. Sunday’s match was a clear reminder of her potential to change games and capture imaginations, even after a long layoff.

Key stats from Rodman’s comeback performance

• Minutes played: 14 (entered in 76th minute)

• Goals scored: 1 (92nd minute game-winner)

• Impact touches: Key movement on final sequence

• Current NWSL season goals: 2

• USWNT goals in 2025: 1

Rodman’s goal marks her second of the NWSL season despite limited playing time, and it showcases her unique ability to perform under pressure. If her body holds up, fans can expect more fireworks in the weeks ahead.

Bold, resilient, and ready for more—Trinity Rodman is back, and the league has been officially put on notice.

You Must Know:

What injury did Trinity Rodman suffer from?
Trinity Rodman has been managing a recurring back injury that dates back to her rookie year. It flared up again in early 2025, limiting her appearances to just five matches so far this season.

When did Trinity Rodman last play before her return?
Before Sunday’s game, Rodman’s last match for the Washington Spirit was on April 12, 2025. She spent nearly four months recovering from injury before making her return on August 4.

How did Trinity Rodman score her comeback goal?
She scored in the 92nd minute following a turnover won by Courtney Brown, a cross by Brown, and a crucial touch from Croix Bethune. Rodman was unmarked at the back post and buried a half-volley for the winner.

Has Trinity Rodman played for the USWNT in 2025?
Yes. She returned to the U.S. Women’s National Team earlier this year and scored in a friendly win over Brazil in April. That remains her only national team appearance of 2025 so far.

Why is Trinity Rodman’s return important for the NWSL?
Rodman is one of the league’s brightest stars. Her presence drives fan engagement, media coverage, and team performance. Her successful return boosts the Spirit’s playoff hopes and energizes the league overall.