Sophia Wilson Returns to Portland Thorns for 2026, After Maternity Leave and 2022 MVP

In a move that excited fans and the club alike, Sophia Wilson has announced her return to the Portland Thorns for the 2026 season. The 25‑year‑old U.S. national team star exercised the player option of her contract for an additional year, a decision the National Women’s Soccer League team confirmed on Wednesday. While the terms of the deal were not disclosed, Sportico reported that the option was valued at $1 million.

Background

Wilson’s journey to the Thorns began when she was selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NWSL draft out of Stanford University, where she helped the Cardinal win the 2019 College Cup title. In the semifinal against UCLA, she scored three goals and earned the College Cup’s most valuable player award. These achievements set the stage for her professional career, which has been marked by consistent excellence.

Return to the Thorns

The player will rejoin the club after a season away due to maternity leave, during which she welcomed her daughter Gianna. Wilson, formerly Sophia Smith, married Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Wilson in January, and the family has settled in the Portland area. Her return is described as “so special” because Portland is where she started her professional career and where she has grown in many ways.

Contract Details

The NWSL announced that Wilson exercised the player option, but did not release the contract amount. Sportico’s reporting of a $1 million option value provides context for the club’s investment. This move signals the Thorns’ confidence in her continued impact on the field.

Player’s Perspective

In a statement released by the team, Wilson said, “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.” She continued, “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.”

Stats with the Thorns

During her five seasons with the club, Wilson has scored 44 goals across all competitions. She has been a key offensive force, consistently contributing to the team’s scoring tally and providing leadership on the pitch.

2022 MVP and 2025 Success

Wilson was named the NWSL’s most valuable player in 2022 after helping Portland win the league championship. Her performance that year underscored her value to the team and highlighted her ability to deliver in high‑stakes matches.

2021 Shield and Challenge Cup

She was also part of the Thorns squad that captured the 2021 NWSL Shield and the 2021 Challenge Cup. These achievements added to her list of club honors and reinforced her status as a top player in the league.

2023 Golden Boot

In 2023, Wilson earned the league’s Golden Boot award by leading the NWSL with 11 goals. This accolade showcased her continued goal‑scoring prowess and her importance to the Thorns’ offensive strategy.

Draft and College Career

Wilson’s selection as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NWSL draft followed a stellar college career at Stanford, where she was instrumental in the 2019 College Cup victory. Her three‑goal performance in the semifinal against UCLA and her MVP award at the College Cup were early indicators of the impact she would have at the professional level.

Personal Life

After marrying Michael Wilson in January, the couple welcomed their daughter Gianna during the 2025 season. Wilson’s maternity leave kept her away from the Thorns for a year, but her return marks a new chapter for both her family and the club.

National Team Achievements

Wilson was a member of the U.S. national team that won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics. She also competed in the 2023 Women’s World Cup squad and has earned 58 caps, scoring 24 goals for her country.

Triple Espresso

Alongside teammates Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson, Wilson formed a formidable front line dubbed “Triple Espresso.” This nickname reflects the trio’s dynamic and energetic play style on the international stage.

U.S. Soccer Awards

Wilson has received multiple national honors, including U.S. Soccer women’s player of the year in 2022 and young player of the year in 2017. These accolades highlight her long‑term contribution to American soccer.

Quote from Jeff Agoos

Thorns general manager Jeff Agoos praised Wilson’s return, stating, “She is an exceptional global star that can change the game in an instant.” He added, “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.”

Key Takeaways

• Wilson’s return to the Thorns is set for the 2026 season after a maternity leave.
• She has a proven track record: 44 goals, 2022 MVP, 2023 Golden Boot, and multiple team titles.
• Wilson’s national team success includes Olympic gold and 58 caps for the U.S. women’s squad.

Closing

The Thorns’ decision to bring Wilson back underscores the club’s commitment to building on recent successes while honoring a player who has become synonymous with Portland soccer. Fans can look forward to seeing Wilson’s “new version” take the field again, bringing experience, skill, and a deep connection to the community she helped grow. The 2026 season promises to be an exciting chapter for both the player and the club.