Christen Press is powering through a lengthy recovery from her ACL tear in June 2022, undergoing four surgeries and embracing a mindset of "relentless optimism" as she navigates the uncertain path back to playing. Her journey is characterized by a shifting focus from results to process, with her current goal being to return to team training and pave the way for a successful season and a comeback to the national team.

Why It Matters

Press's resilient approach and determination in the face of obstacles underscore the mental and physical challenges of injury recovery in professional sports, highlighting the importance of mindset and perspective in such journeys.

By the Numbers
  • Press underwent four surgeries following her ACL tear in June 2022.
  • It has been 20 months since her injury, with no definitive timeline for her return to training and gameplay.
State of Play
  • Press is focused on her gradual recovery, aiming to make a successful return to team training and eventually the national team.
  • Her shift in approach from result-centric to process-oriented reflects the challenges and growth experienced during her recovery journey.
What's Next

Press's immediate goal is to progress to team training and work towards a successful season, with aspirations to regain her place on the national team.

Bottom Line

Christen Press's relentless optimism and resilience in the face of injury exemplify the mental and physical fortitude required for athletes to navigate challenging recoveries, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the recovery process rather than solely fixating on end results.