USWNT Welcomes Back Stars Wilson and Davidson for Japan Friendlies

Veteran players return to national team roster after personal absences.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:31pm by Ben Kaplan

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The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team has named veteran players Sophia Wilson of the Portland Thorns and Tierna Davidson to its roster for a pair of upcoming friendly matches against Japan. Wilson will make her return to the USWNT after taking time off to give birth to her daughter, while Davidson rejoins the squad after a personal leave of absence.

Why it matters

The return of Wilson and Davidson provides a boost to the USWNT as it prepares for crucial World Cup and Olympic qualifying matches later this year. Both players are experienced internationals who have been key contributors to the team's success in recent major tournaments.

The details

Wilson, a forward, last featured for the USWNT in 2024 before stepping away to start a family. Davidson, a defender, has not played for the national team since 2025 due to undisclosed personal reasons. Their inclusion in the roster for the upcoming friendlies against Japan signals their readiness to rejoin the squad and compete for spots on the team ahead of pivotal qualifying events.

  • The USWNT will face Japan in a pair of friendlies on April 15 and April 18, 2026.
  • Wilson last played for the USWNT in 2024 before taking time off to have a child.
  • Davidson has been absent from the USWNT since 2025 due to personal reasons.

The players

Sophia Wilson

A forward for the Portland Thorns who has been a regular for the U.S. Women's National Team, earning over 50 caps since making her debut in 2018.

Tierna Davidson

A defender who has been a key part of the USWNT's backline, making over 75 appearances for the national team since 2017.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to welcome Sophia and Tierna back into the fold. Their experience and leadership will be invaluable as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”

— Vlatko Andonovski, Head Coach, U.S. Women's National Team

What’s next

The USWNT will use the upcoming friendlies against Japan to evaluate its roster and finalize its plans for crucial World Cup and Olympic qualifying matches later this year.

The takeaway

The return of veteran stars Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson provides a timely boost to the USWNT as it looks to solidify its roster and build momentum ahead of high-stakes qualifying tournaments in the coming months.