Portland Thorns clear USWNT star Sophia Wilson to return ahead of NWSL season

The star forward is set to rejoin the team after a maternity leave.

Mar. 5, 2026 at 9:06pm

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The Portland Thorns have announced that they have removed the maternity leave designation for forward Sophia Wilson, clearing her to return to the field ahead of the upcoming NWSL season. Wilson, a star player for the U.S. women's national team, did not play for the Thorns last season due to her maternity leave.

Why it matters

Wilson's return is a major boost for the Thorns as they look to compete for an NWSL championship this season. As one of the top players in the league, her presence on the field will be crucial for the team's success.

The details

The Thorns organization made the announcement that they have cleared Wilson to return to play, removing the maternity leave designation that kept her off the field last season. Wilson, who is a key player for the U.S. women's national team, will now be able to rejoin the Thorns roster and participate in preseason training ahead of the 2026 NWSL campaign.

  • Wilson went on maternity leave prior to the 2025 NWSL season.
  • The Thorns have now cleared Wilson to return ahead of the 2026 NWSL season.

The players

Sophia Wilson

A star forward for the Portland Thorns and the U.S. women's national team.

Portland Thorns

The professional women's soccer team based in Portland, Oregon that competes in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

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What’s next

With Wilson's return, the Thorns will look to integrate her back into the lineup and have her ready to contribute when the 2026 NWSL season kicks off.

The takeaway

The Thorns' decision to clear Sophia Wilson to return is a major boost for the team as they aim to contend for an NWSL championship this season. Wilson's presence on the field will be crucial to the team's success.