After a year away from the field, 25-year-old U.S. national team star Sophia Wilson is set to return to the Portland Thorns for the 2026 season, having exercised a $1 million player option, according to a NWSL announcement.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Sportico reported that the option was worth $1 million.
Wilson did not play this season for the Thorns because she was on maternity leave for the birth of her daughter Gianna.
Formerly Sophia Smith, she married Arizona Cardinals wide‑receiver Michael Wilson in January.
A Return to Roots
Wilson’s decision to come back to Portland feels like a homecoming.
“Bringing this new version of myself back to Portland is so special to me because Portland is where I started my professional career and it’s where I’ve really grown up in a lot of ways,” Wilson said in a statement released by the team.
“I’m excited for the city. I love living there. I love the people there. I’m excited to get back with everyone and play in Providence Park, to play in front of the Riveters. There’s no place like it.”
Career Highlights with the Thorns
In five seasons with the Thorns, Wilson has scored 44 goals across all competitions.
She was named the NWSL’s most valuable player in 2022 after helping Portland win the league championship.
Wilson was also on the Thorns team that won the 2021 NWSL Shield and the 2021 Challenge Cup.
In 2023 she captured the league’s Golden Boot by leading with 11 goals.
National Team Accolades
Wilson’s international resume is equally impressive.
She was on the U.S. national team that won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, and she has played in 58 games, scoring 24 goals.
Fans dubbed the front line of Wilson, Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson “Triple Espresso.”
Wilson was also on the 2023 Women’s World Cup squad.
She was named U.S. Soccer women’s player of the year in 2022 and young player of the year in 2017.
Personal Milestones
Beyond the pitch, Wilson’s personal life has seen significant milestones.
She married Michael Wilson in January and welcomed her daughter Gianna during the 2025‑26 season.
Her return to the Thorns comes after a period of maternity leave, marking a new chapter in her career.
Quotes from Wilson and the Club
“She is an exceptional global star that can change the game in an instant,” Thorns general manager Jeff Agoos said.
“Sophia will strengthen our roster’s attack as we build on the success we saw in 2025, and we are happy that she will represent and fight for this incredible soccer community next season.”
Statistical Snapshot
- 44 goals in five seasons with the Thorns
- 58 national team caps, 24 goals
- 2022 NWSL MVP
- 2023 Golden Boot (11 goals)
- 2021 NWSL Shield and Challenge Cup winner
- 2019 College Cup MVP, 3 goals in semifinal vs. UCLA
Looking Ahead
With her experience, skill set, and love for the city, Wilson is poised to make a significant impact in the 2026 season.
The Thorns and the city of Portland are eager to welcome back a player who has become a symbol of the club’s success and a role model for aspiring athletes.
