Mar 28, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Wave FC forward Catarina Macario (20) is introduced at halftime against Chicago Stars FC after signing with the team on Friday, March 27 at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chadd Cady-Imagn Images
On September 14, the San Diego Wave FC announced that forward Catarina Macario would be placed on the season-ending injury list after undergoing a minor knee procedure. Earlier this year, she also dealt with an ankle injury, which has hampered her progress and availability throughout the season.
Camille Ashton, general manager and sporting director of the Wave, expressed the club’s commitment to Macario in an official statement. “We made a significant long-term commitment to Cat because we believe in her ability to make a lasting impact on this club. While we are disappointed that she will not be available this season, our focus is on her health and supporting her throughout this process.”
Macario, who joined the San Diego Wave in March 2026, previously showcased her talent at Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL) for three seasons and also had a successful stint with Lyon. Across her career, she has made a total of 62 appearances for these clubs along with 29 appearances for the US Women’s National Team.
In a promising career that has been shadowed by injuries, Macario has yet to feature for the Wave in the current season. Her ability to finally make an impact for the San Diego side will depend largely on her recovery and rehabilitation process. The club remains hopeful that with the right support, she can return to the pitch stronger than ever.
This setback is undoubtedly a disappointment for the Wave as they aim to strengthen their roster in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Macario’s signing was seen as a significant boost for the team’s attacking options, and her absence will be felt in their push for success this season.
As the NWSL continues to gain popularity and competitiveness, teams like the San Diego Wave are making strategic investments in talent. The future remains bright for the Wave, provided they can navigate the challenges posed by injuries and remain proactive in their roster management.
For Macario, the focus now shifts to her rehabilitation, with the hopes of returning to full fitness ahead of next season. The journey back to form will be meticulously managed, as the Wave organization prioritizes her long-term health over any short-term gains.
