Mallory Swanson: A Star Forward, A National Hero, A Soon-To-Be Mom

Mallory Swanson is more than just a soccer player, she's an icon of strength, grace, and resilience. Whether she's scoring game-winning goals or representing her country on the world stage, her story continues to inspire millions. With recent news of her pregnancy, fans are eager to know what's next in the journey of this U.S. soccer star.

In this article, everything from her career highlights to "Mallory Swanson injury" history and recent absence from the field is covered in a simple and engaging way.

Who Is Mallory Swanson?

Born in March 1998, Mallory Swanson is a professional soccer forward known for her speed, skill, and ability to shine in high-pressure moments. Her name gained global recognition during the 2019 Women’s World Cup, where she helped the U.S. team clinch the title. Since then, she’s become a household name in American soccer.

For anyone wondering, “How old is Mallory Swanson?”—she is currently 27 years old, at the peak of her athletic prime.

A Quick Look at Her Career

From her early days playing in youth leagues to starring in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for the Chicago Stars, Swanson has always stood out. She has:

• Won Olympic gold at the 2024 Paris Games.
  
  

• Scored the only goal in the final against Brazil, sealing the U.S. victory.
  
  

• Been a key contributor in multiple international tournaments.
  
  

• Earned sponsorships and a loyal fanbase nationwide.
  
  

Her jersey remains one of the most popular in the league. In fact, the "Mallory Swanson jersey" is a top seller, thanks to her loyal supporters and her signature playing style.

Why Is Mallory Swanson Not Playing?

A common question circulating recently is, "Why is Mallory Swanson not playing?"

The answer is twofold:

• Personal Leave – Swanson has been excused from both her club duties at the Chicago Stars and the national team for personal reasons.
  
  

• Exciting News – In May 2025, she and her husband, Dansby Swanson, announced they are expecting their first child. The couple shared the news on social media with joyful photos and the caption, "Our greatest blessing."
  
  

So, while she isn’t injured currently, she is taking a break from competitive soccer to focus on family and motherhood.

A Love Story Beyond Sports

The romance between Mallory Swanson and Dansby Swanson, a star shortstop for the Chicago Cubs, has captured hearts across the country. Both elite athletes in their own right, their love story feels straight out of a movie.

Dansby, a two-time All-Star and 2021 World Series Champion, continues to shine in MLB, while Mallory dominates in soccer. Their shared passion for excellence makes them a power couple admired by fans nationwide.

Mallory Swanson Injury: What Happened?

While she’s currently off the field due to her pregnancy, it wasn’t long ago that Mallory Swanson injury news made headlines. In early 2023, she suffered a knee injury that temporarily halted her season. The incident happened during a friendly match and led to months of rehab.

That moment showed not just her physical strength, but her mental resilience. She bounced back to help the U.S. win gold in Paris just a year later.

Her Absence from the 2025 Season

Mallory Swanson has not played this season for the Chicago Stars or the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT). Her absence is fully excused, and the team supports her decision wholeheartedly. This aligns with a larger trend of athletes choosing family milestones without compromising their careers.

It’s worth noting that her Olympic teammate Sophia Wilson is also expecting a baby with NFL wide receiver Michael Wilson—highlighting a new era where top female athletes are normalizing both elite performance and family life.

The Impact of Mallory Swanson on the U.S. Soccer

Swanson’s contributions to U.S. soccer go beyond stats and trophies. She’s an ambassador of the sport who:

• Encourages young girls to dream big.
  
  

• Represents determination and comeback strength.
  
  

• Elevates the visibility of women’s soccer in mainstream media.
  
  

From kids wearing a Mallory Swanson jersey at soccer camps to fans chanting her name in stadiums, her influence is clear and growing.

What’s Next for Mallory Swanson?

Right now, Swanson is focused on her growing family. But that doesn't mean her soccer journey is over. Based on her previous comebacks, many believe she’ll return to the field stronger than ever—possibly in time for the 2026 NWSL season or the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Fans and analysts alike expect her to pick up right where she left off—scoring goals and inspiring crowds.

Final Thoughts

Mallory Swanson stands at the intersection of athletic excellence and human vulnerability. Her recent break from the game due to pregnancy doesn't pause her legacy—it enhances it. In a time when public figures are often boxed into single identities, Swanson is breaking the mold.

Whether asking “Why is Mallory Swanson not playing?” or searching for a Mallory Swanson injury update, one thing is clear: this is a woman whose impact stretches far beyond the soccer field. While Mallory Swanson’s fans eagerly await her return to the pitch, global football continues to thrill. In men’s football, Real Madrid's recent win at Getafe has kept their La Liga title hopes alive, reminding fans of how critical every match can be at the top level.