After the Portland Thorns suffered five season-ending injuries in 2025 - 2026 has not started any better for the club.
Today, the team's all-time leader in shutouts, Bella Bixby has been placed on the season-ending injury (SEI) list.
"Bixby sustained an injury to her left knee during pre-season training in Santa Barbara. The club will now focus on providing world-class care, recovery, and rehabilitation support for Bella over the next months."
This whole city and community is with you Bella. We’re all wishing you a fast recovery ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Mj7Zr74dCg
— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) January 31, 2026
Bella Bixby:
"I am saddened to share that my 9th season is over before it's really even begun. During preseason with the team, I suffered an ACL tear."
"I am devastated at the timing of this injury - I worked tirelessly to get back physically and mentally after starting my family."
"While I may be grieving the loss of what I worked so hard for in my postpartum return, I plan to pour my whole heart back into this team and into the community."
"While this is never the position I saw myself in this year, I have no doubt I will be back stronger than ever thanks to the support of my teammates, staff, club, city, and family."
