Croix Bethune has rapidly become one of the most exciting midfielders in women’s soccer. With her vision, creativity, and technical skill, she has made an impact at every level. From her youth days to her professional career with the Washington Spirit, she continues to impress fans and analysts.
Her journey is a story of resilience, talent, and determination. Let’s take a closer look at her rise in the sport.
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Early Life and Youth Career
Born for Soccer
Croix Collette Bethune was born on March 14, 2001, in Alpharetta, Georgia. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for the game. Her parents, both in the military, moved to England when she was a child. There, she played soccer against boys, developing toughness and quick decision-making.
When she returned to the United States, she joined the Concorde Fire Soccer Club in Atlanta. Her performances quickly earned her national recognition. She was named a Top 10 recruit in the country in 2019.
High School and National Team Recognition
Bethune’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. She was called up to U.S. youth national team camps, where she played with some of the best young players in the country. Even at a young age, she stood out with her dribbling ability, passing, and goal-scoring.
But her path to success wasn’t without setbacks.
College Career: Overcoming Adversity
USC and the ACL Injury
In 2019, Bethune committed to the University of Southern California (USC). She had high expectations, but disaster struck before her freshman season. She tore her ACL, a devastating injury that kept her off the field for a year.
Many players struggle to return from such an injury, but Bethune used the time to improve mentally and physically. When she finally stepped onto the field in 2020, she was ready.
Breakout Seasons
Bethune made an immediate impact at USC:
- 2020 Season: She scored three goals and recorded five assists. She was named to the All-Pac-12 First Team and the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team.
- 2021 Season: She exploded with 16 goals and 10 assists, earning First-Team All-American honors. She was also a semifinalist for the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy.
She continued to dominate in 2022, but after three seasons at USC, she wanted a new challenge.
Transfer to Georgia
Bethune transferred to the University of Georgia for the 2023 season. There, she helped her team win the SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament. She earned Second-Team All-American honors and cemented her reputation as one of the best midfielders in college soccer.
By the time she declared for the NWSL Draft, everyone knew she was a special talent.
Professional Career: Washington Spirit
Drafted Third Overall
The Washington Spirit selected Bethune with the third overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft. She immediately stepped into a starting role, filling the gap left by Ashley Sanchez’s departure.
Incredible Rookie Season
Bethune wasted no time making her mark in the NWSL. Her debut season was historic:
- She scored a stoppage-time game-winner in her first game against Bay FC.
- She recorded 10 assists in just 12 games, tying the NWSL single-season assist record.
- She became the youngest player ever to register three assists in a single match.
- She finished the season with five goals and 10 assists in 17 matches.
Her performances earned her several awards, including:
- NWSL Rookie of the Month (four times)
- NWSL Rookie of the Year
- NWSL Midfielder of the Year
- Best XI First Team Selection
Bethune had arrived.
International Career: Representing the USA
Paris Olympics 2024
Bethune’s performances caught the attention of the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT). She was named as an alternate for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
When Jaedyn Shaw suffered an injury, Bethune was added to the main roster. She made her Olympic debut against Australia and helped the team win a gold medal.
This was just the beginning of her international career.
Future with the USWNT
With her ability to control the midfield, many believe Bethune will be a key player for the USWNT in the future. She is expected to play a big role in the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
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Playing Style: A True Playmaker
Bethune is known for her:
- Dribbling: She has quick feet and can beat defenders easily.
- Vision: She sees passes before they happen and creates chances for teammates.
- Shooting: She has a powerful shot and can score from distance.
- Versatility: She can play as an attacking midfielder or a deep-lying playmaker.
Her playing style has been compared to Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Horan.
Injury Setback
Meniscus Tear at a Baseball Game
Unfortunately, Bethune’s incredible rookie season was cut short. On August 28, 2024, she tore her meniscus while throwing the first pitch at a Washington Nationals baseball game.
The freak injury required surgery, ending her season. It was a tough break for the young star.
Road to Recovery
Despite the setback, Bethune remains determined to come back stronger. She has already started rehab and is expected to return in early 2025.
Her resilience has been tested before, and she has always bounced back.
What’s Next for Croix Bethune?
Club Career
When Bethune returns from injury, she will be a key player for the Washington Spirit. The team is building around her, and she will look to lead them to an NWSL Championship.
International Ambitions
Bethune is expected to play a big role in upcoming USWNT tournaments. With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, she will aim to establish herself as a regular starter.
Potential Move to Europe?
Some analysts believe Bethune could eventually move to a top European club. Teams in England and Spain have already shown interest.
For now, she is focused on her recovery and continuing her rise in the NWSL.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making
Croix Bethune’s journey has been full of highs and lows. From her ACL injury in college to her record-breaking NWSL rookie season, she has shown resilience and determination.
Her talent is undeniable, and she has the potential to be one of the best midfielders in the world. Whether for the Washington Spirit or the USWNT, she is a player to watch for years to come.
The future is bright for Croix Bethune.
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