Angel City FC forward Sydney Leroux’s potential comeback appears closer to coming to fruition as she has posted photos to social media of her back on the pitch at Angel City FC’s training facilities.
The former USWNT forward announced ahead of the 2025 season that she would step away from the game for her mental health, and has not appeared in a match since November, 2024. Angel City ended the season in 12th place that year, but Leroux was an important player on the front line starting 19 matches
for the club.
Before the start of the 2026 season Leroux posted again to social media describing the difficulties of the past year for her on a personal level, and thanked those who supported her dedicating this comeback to them.
“To be honest… this past year was hell. The hardest year of my life. Heartbreaking, isolating and devastating. A year that will stay with me forever,” Leroux said. “A year that changed me. I’ve shared wins and losses, grief and joy, the humor and chaos of motherhood, moments that make life messy and beautiful.”
The timeline for her potential return remains unclear and she was last listed on the Angel City availability report as an excused absence from the team. Still, the 35-year-old attacker showed strong ability in front of net in her last appearances with the club in what was an otherwise disappointing season for the club that was in flux at the time.
Leroux has been part of the National Women’s Soccer League since its inception in 2013 and has played with six different teams over the past 14 years. Leroux joined the Southern California club in the Summer of 2022, but only made three appearances that season. In 2023 and 2024 Leroux earned 10 goals and is fourth on the club’s all-time leading scorer list.
Through four matches Angel City has won three matches and lost once with a dynamic offense and roster that seems to have unlocked a new level under head coach Alex Strauss. The front line has been highlighted by Sveindís Jónsdóttir who is tied for second in the golden boot race, and bolstered by Riley Tiernan on the left. Still, the caliber of a veteran player like Leroux could elevate competition in the pool, and provide an important impact off the bench.
Angel City FC will play their next match at BMO stadium on Sunday, April 26, against the Portland Thorns.
