July 08, (THEWILL) – As the highly anticipated FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand draws near, concerns are rising over a recurring problem — serious knee injuries, sidelining top players.
While the return of Alexia Putellas, widely regarded as the best player in the world, was fortunate for her and the tournament, a host of leading names will be absent due to ongoing knee issues. The absence of prominent players like Mallory Swanson (USA), Catarina Macario (USA), Beth Mead (England), and Vivianne Miedema (Netherlands), among others, has left a void in the competition.
The absence of these star players will cast a shadow over the upcoming Women’s World Cup, which is expected to boast the finest talent in women’s football. For the sidelined players themselves, the disappointment of missing out on such a significant event is compounded by the frustration of not being able to contribute and demonstrate their skills on this global stage.
The prevalence of knee injuries has triggered a deep analysis of its underlying causes. Experts have long recognised that female players face a significantly higher knee risk compared to their male counterparts. Factors such as training surfaces, appropriate footwear, and biomechanical differences, including pelvic shape and hormonal changes, contribute to this increased susceptibility.
In response to the issue, efforts are being made to prioritise prevention and address safety concerns, including the need for better-tailored equipment specifically designed for women to mitigate the dangers they face in the very competitive sport they play.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
