Mallory Swanson makes long-awaited return to Chicago Stars after 554 days away

women’s national team forward made her first appearance for the Stars on Saturday against the North Carolina Courage, after 18 months away. The Olympic gold medalist and one-third of the “Triple Espresso” trio from the 2024 Paris Olympics entered the match against the Courage in the 76th minute, replacing teammate Ryan Gareis. Swanson’s long-awaited return to the pitch was met with a loud ovation from North Carolina’s fans, as the home side

Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson is back. The U. S.

women’s national team forward made her first appearance for the Stars on Saturday against the North Carolina Courage, after 18 months away. The Olympic gold medalist and one-third of the “Triple Espresso” trio from the 2024 Paris Olympics entered the match against the Courage in the 76th minute, replacing teammate Ryan Gareis. Swanson’s long-awaited return to the pitch was met with a loud ovation from North Carolina’s fans, as the home side led 4-0 after goals from Evelyn Ijeh in the 47th minute, Ashley Sanchez in the 61st, Ally Schlegel in the 64th and Manaka Matsukubo in the 85th.

Swanson’s comeback had been more than a year in the making. Her last appearance before maternity leave came on Nov. 3, 2024, in Chicago’s playoff quarterfinal loss to the Orlando Pride, the club’s final match before dropping the Red Stars name.