35-year-old goalkeeper Hope Solo decided to go through with a shoulder replacement surgery this week, announcing it via social media on Wednesday morning. Solo, a veteran goalkeeper for NWSL club Seattle Reign as well as the U.S. Women’s National Team, went ahead with the surgery after stepping away from her club for the remainder of the season and also being suspended by the U.S. Soccer Federation last month.
Surgery goes well for Solo
The surgery was successful, and Solo shared it on her Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts once she was feeling well post-operation.
“Yesterday, I underwent shoulder replacement surgery to address an injury I’ve been dealing with for some time,” Solo explained in her posts. “An opportunity presented itself after my contract was terminated and while difficult, it opened the door to take care of a long overdue surgery.
“Thanks to a brilliant team of doctors at the University of Washington Medical Center led by Dr. Frederick Matsen (my new Captain Sully, my hero!) I’ve got a brand new shoulder (read: bionic) and for the first time in years, I can raise my right arm above my head,” she continued. “I’m filled with excitement knowing how life-changing this is and I look forward to coming back healthier and stronger than ever.”
Solo performed well despite injury
As mentioned in her post, the Washington native’s shoulder isn’t a recent issue. She has been dealing with the her shoulder for years, yet still continued to perform in a high-level manner throughout her career. Solo has over 200 appearances for the USWNT, recording over 100 shutouts during her time in goal. She also has made 54 appearances for the Seattle Reign in the past four years, making it all the way to the finals in the 2014 and 2015 seasons.