Swanson USWNT 2023Getty

Mallory Swanson injury is a crushing blow: USWNT's in-form striker would have been a World Cup star

Devastating, just devastating. That's all you can really say. Even as she left the field seemingly in good spirits, we all knew what this meant for Mallory Swanson. Her hands may have formed a heart as she thanked the crowd for support, but there was nothing to love about any of this.

The moment Swanson was carted off against Ireland on Saturday, the U.S. women's national team's World Cup hopes dramatically shifted. And, perhaps most importantly, a person's life changed, as Swanson was robbed of a chance to become a true superstar on the biggest stage.

That's what the 24-year-old was on her way to becoming: A superstar. She has been the USWNT's best player in 2023, the leader of a new generation desperate to make their own mark by bringing another World Cup home.

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And the USWNT still could do that. The talent is there to do so, but if they are to find success in Australia and New Zealand this summer, it will have to come without Swanson.

Her devastating injury is a blow for her, for the U.S. and for the women's game in general, as the World Cup will be missing a true breakout star candidate.