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San Diego Wave FC defender Trinity Armstrong has been placed on the NWSL's Season-Ending Injury List once again, just two matches after making her return from a lengthy recovery.
The club announced Tuesday that the 18-year-old defender will miss the remainder of the 2026 season. While the Wave did not disclose the nature of the injury, Armstrong revealed on Instagram that she suffered a fully ruptured ACL and lateral meniscus in her right knee.
The setback comes just weeks after Armstrong returned from a left knee injury suffered during San Diego's 2025 NWSL Playoff match against the Portland Thorns. She made her season debut as a substitute in the Wave's 2-0 victory over Gotham FC on July 4 before making a second appearance against Angel City FC.
"Six months rebuilding my left knee. Two league games in on my right. Fully ruptured ACL and lateral meniscus," Armstrong wrote. "Supposedly my strongest leg and third surgery in three years."
Despite the devastating news, Armstrong's message remained focused on her faith and determination to return.
"When I walk back out onto that pitch, it won't just be a comeback, it'll be proof of what's possible when you refuse to let anything, not even your own body, break your faith in where you're going," she wrote.
Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton also shared the club's support for the young defender.
"Our hearts are with Trinity in this difficult time," Ashton said. "She will have the full support from this team and entire organization as she navigates her recovery."
Armstrong was one of the brightest young defenders in the NWSL during her rookie campaign in 2025, making 23 appearances, scoring one goal, and adding two assists. Her season was cut short by injury in the playoffs, and now another difficult rehabilitation awaits as she works toward returning to the field once again.
