The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup continues, and England’s journey has been framed by the absence of key players due to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
The team’s recent 1-0 win against Haiti has brought focus back on the impact of losing Beth Mead and captain Leah Williamson, both sidelined with ACL ruptures.
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Unfortunately, England is not alone in facing this issue, as other top contenders in the tournament have also been affected by ACL injuries.
For instance, United States forward Catarina Macario and star Christen Press are recovering from ACL injuries.
Canada is missing Janine Beckie, while the Netherlands and France are without Vivianne Miedema, Delphine Cascarino, and Marie Antoinette Katoto, respectively.
The prevalence of ACL injuries in women’s football is concerning, with an estimated 60 top players sidelined at the end of 2022.
Women are between two and eight times more likely to rupture their ACL compared to men.
Researchers have put forward several theories to explain this disparity, but there is still much to learn about the underlying causes and how to protect players better.
Some experts point to a lack of investment in women’s football, leading to insufficient research and understanding of ACL injuries in the sport.
Alex Culvin, head of strategy and research in women’s soccer at FIFPro, highlights the players’ demand for research and concerns about safety.
The lack of attention to women’s sports in scientific studies is a significant issue, with only six percent of sports science research focusing on women, and women comprising only 34 percent of study participants.
Possible causes of ACL injuries include the menstrual cycle, muscle and joint construction differences, increased playing load, and ill-fitting kit.
Some teams, like the United States, have started tracking cycles to consider its impact on players’ performance and injury risk.
Wider pelvises and less muscle mass around the knee may also play a role in the higher incidence of ACL injuries in women.
As women’s football gains popularity and players’ workload increases, injuries become a significant concern.
Clubs and kit manufacturers are making efforts to improve player safety, but more research and investment are needed to protect players from ACL injuries.
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The Women’s World Cup is a grand stage for showcasing football talent, and it is disappointing to see key players sidelined due to avoidable injuries.
Addressing this issue will not only benefit the players but also ensure fans can witness the best of women’s football in the tournament.
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