NWSL needs its stars to shine, as Rodman and Wilson return to action
The 2026 NWSL season launched with 16 teams and the returns of star players Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson, signaling the league's continued growth and commitment to featuring its biggest attractions.
Wilson returns from maternity leave in Thorns' NWSL opener victory
Sophia Wilson, 2022 NWSL MVP, returned to competitive play after 488 days following maternity leave, entering as a substitute in Portland Thorns' 1-0 season-opening victory over Washington Spirit.
Wilson returns from maternity leave in Thorns' NWSL opener victory
Sophia Wilson, 2022 NWSL MVP, returned to competitive play after 488 days following maternity leave, entering as a substitute in Portland Thorns' 1-0 season-opening victory over Washington Spirit.
Sophia Wilson exercised her 2026 player option with Portland Thorns FC, activating a $1 million option year—the first seven-figure contract year in NWSL history.
