Tierna Davidson Signs New Gotham Deal While Battling Back from ACL Injury
Tierna Davidson has a deep affection for New Jersey, though her connection to the Garden State isn't the sole factor behind her decision to extend her contract with NJ/NY Gotham FC.
"Right now is a crucial moment for me to feel assured and stable with my team, and Gotham has provided exactly that," Davidson explains. "They demonstrated their support throughout my injury recovery, making this decision straightforward. Shortly after my injury occurred, they approached me about extending the contract. This reflects the organization's character, showing they value not only the athlete but the individual as well."
Davidson's updated contract modifies her initial three-year agreement from 2024 and keeps her with the 2023 NWSL champions until 2027.
The U.S. women's national team center-back excelled with Gotham during 2024, recording a personal-best 19 matches for the team and contributing to Gotham's finest defensive performance in franchise history. She suffered an ACL tear during Gotham's third regular season fixture of 2025 and was later added to the league's season-ending injury roster.
"Tierna has repeatedly demonstrated world-class qualities as an athlete, captain and individual," stated Yael Averbuch West, Gotham FC's general manager and head of soccer operations. "We're delighted to have her remain on this path with us and eagerly anticipate her return to action."
During her rehabilitation period, Davidson has maintained her connection with Gotham, conducting her recovery work at the training complex daily and participating actively in team meetings and video analysis sessions.
"Being able to see and engage with them daily, learning about their on-field activities, and contributing during meetings when we analyze matches is crucial for staying involved, both for my mental wellbeing and my role as a team leader," explains Davidson, who was selected as team captain at the season's start.
Her most cherished day remains match day. When Gotham competes at home at Sports Illustrated Stadium, Davidson observes from the spectator area; during away fixtures, she continues her physical rehabilitation and supports her teammates from home, anticipating her eventual return to the field.
"The recovery process is progressing excellently, we have an outstanding medical staff at Gotham, I genuinely believe they're unmatched," Davidson states. "I attribute this to their expertise, professionalism, and skill in making this journey as seamless as possible for me."
Working alongside the performance team, Gotham's medical personnel have created a rehabilitation program that addresses not only Davidson's knee but her entire physical condition, designing demanding yet engaging workouts with the primary objective of returning her to competition.
Regrettably, this isn't Davidson's initial encounter with injury. In 2022, she experienced her first ACL tear, and while each injury presents unique challenges, the previous experience has made this second recovery somewhat more manageable. She understands what to anticipate both physically and mentally, finding comfort in her sense of self beyond her athletic identity.
"That's a journey nearly every athlete experiences during extended periods away from competition, and I believe this second occurrence has made me more comfortable with soccer being temporarily removed, having already confronted that discomfort," Davidson reflects. "I'm able to appreciate experiences outside the sport, knowing it will remain available when I return, even if it appears somewhat different."
From a dream vacation to Canada to protecting her home garden from deer alongside her wife, Davidson is maximizing her time away from competition.
"We visited a tiny town called St. Andrews in New Brunswick for several days and simply enjoyed the tranquility," she shares. "We've also tackled various home projects, like dedicating significant effort to our garden, planting cucumbers, squash, bell peppers and tomatoes—we just need to protect them from deer until harvest season. They're determined, but our dog helps chase them away."
The 2024 Olympic gold medalist and 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup champion has also maintained contact with her USWNT colleagues during recovery, staying informed about camp activities and analyzing matches with a tactical perspective.
"I receive all the details from players who attend, sharing both entertaining stories and valuable insights," Davidson notes. "I study the matches. It's essential to remain connected and observe how the team continues developing during this period. With numerous players emerging and earning their initial caps under Emma [Hayes], it's been fascinating to observe."
Manager Emma Hayes's USWNT has flourished, and according to Davidson, the coach has succeeded in establishing a smooth-running system that enables all players, including newcomers, to grasp the framework while allowing individual brilliance to emerge, like Gotham rookie defender Lilly Reale, who earned her first call-up recently.
"She's enabling players to display their distinctive excellence and demonstrate their unique qualities," Davidson observes. "It's wonderful seeing new players joining and proving they can compete, understand the tactics, execute their responsibilities, and showcase their abilities. It's truly inspiring to witness."
As Davidson progresses through her rehabilitation at Gotham, she depends on her teammate support system to motivate her toward full recovery. She credits her colleagues as the primary reason for her contract extension and recognizes a varied group possessing the ambition and determination to achieve ultimate success.
"The player group is truly exceptional, which always makes you want to remain with the organization," Davidson states. "We have an outstanding collection of talented players, both domestic and international, but also individuals who want team success, who aim to establish strong culture, and who want to see teammates succeed alongside themselves—I believe that's essential for team achievement."
At Gotham, Davidson observes an organization that collectively pursues a shared objective, managing the highs and lows of an NWSL season as one unit, with their focus on another championship pursuit.
"I'm truly excited to not only connect with them away from the field, but hopefully rejoin them on the field soon."
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