Ex-Inter Milan defender, Belgium international retires at just 26
Zinho Vanheusden retired at 26 due to recurring ACL injuries, prioritizing long-term health and family over continuing his professional football career.
Aston Villa's Natalia Arroyo: There was probably a little coach inside me when I was playing'
Natalia Arroyo transitioned from a promising Barcelona playing career cut short by repeated ACL injuries to coaching, valuing early integration, independence, and high standards.
Congested fixture schedules and insufficient recovery are increasing ACL injury risk in women's football and governing bodies must listen and adjust scheduling.
For advances in treating ACL injuries, look to dogs | Cornell Chronicle
ACL injuries are common in young athletes, disproportionately affecting females. Current treatments alleviate symptoms but can't stop disease development or progression.