After a hiatus exceeding 600 days, Sydney Leroux returned to the pitch for Angel City FC during their recent National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) match against the Washington Spirit. The 36-year-old forward entered the game as a late substitute, helping her team secure a 1-1 draw on home turf.
Leroux’s previous appearance dated back to November 1, 2024, when she last played against the Portland Thorns. Her extended absence began just one day before Angel City’s 2025 season opener, during which she stepped away from the sport to focus on her health.
Sydney Leroux Checks in for Angel City FC After Mental Health Leave
Throughout her time away, Leroux openly shared that she had been diagnosed with anorexia, a revelation she made public in November. At that moment, she expressed determination not to remain silent about her struggles, stating, “I refuse to let my fear continue to keep me quiet.”
Leading up to her return, Leroux’s readiness was evident during training sessions, where her presence had been steadily increasing. Interim head coach Leif Smerud praised her comeback, calling it “fantastic to have Syd back” on the active roster. Fellow teammate, defender Savy King, who also made her own return to play during the same match, lauded Leroux as “an absolutely incredible person and player” and acknowledged her as “a huge part of my recovery as well.”
Leroux remains under contract with Angel City FC through 2027 and currently stands as the club’s fourth all-time top scorer. Looking ahead, Angel City is set to host the surging Gotham FC on August 23rd at BMO Stadium, where fans will likely witness Leroux continue to reestablish herself on the field.