Orlando Pride midfielder Grace Chanda has been placed on the Season Ending Injury list after sustaining a ruptured quadriceps tendon in her right leg while representing Zambia at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The club announced that Chanda, who was expected to make her debut for the Pride following the Olympics, will now focus on recovery and rehabilitation under the care of the Pride’s medical team and their partners at Orlando Health.
“We are incredibly disappointed for Grace at this injury and how it occurred,” said Orlando Pride VP of Soccer Operations and General Manager Haley Carter. “Fortunately, she is under the best possible care with our medical and performance teams here at the Club and through Orlando Health. While her debut in purple will be later than planned, it’s imperative we prioritize her health and welfare through a safe and responsible return to the pitch. We’re behind Grace every step of the way and will support her throughout the entire recovery process. With our investment, resources, and performance environment, Grace will come out of this stronger and ready to make an impact in 2025.”
Chanda signed with the Pride in May 2024, with a contract extending through the 2025 season and a mutual option for 2026. She joined the team following a successful stint at Madrid CFF in Spain’s Liga F, where she established herself as a standout player and was one of three players shortlisted for the African Women’s Footballer of the Year award in 2022.
Her injury is a significant setback, but the club is committed to providing the necessary support for her recovery, with the hope that she will return stronger for the 2025 season.