Jorja Fox: Inspiring Comeback Story of Chelsea Defender Battling Back from ACL 'Heartbreak'

Jorja Fox expresses her profound sadness over the rupture of her ACL, but remains resolute in her determination to make a triumphant comeback after this setback. As a Chelsea defender, she firmly believes in bouncing back stronger.

This injury occurred in May while she was on loan at Brighton, making her yet another female player in the game to be affected by this devastating incident.

Fox, who is four months into her post-surgery rehabilitation, asserts that she is now in a positive mindset.

"I am gradually making progress and overcoming obstacles along the way, as one would anticipate. Despite encountering a few setbacks, I am determined to persevere," Fox confirmed to We.

"It was heart breaking. It's an injury you see so much, but never expect it to happen to you. I was in denial for a bit, but eventually it sunk in and I accepted it.

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Fox enjoyed a day at Battersea Dogs' Home while she recovers from an ACL injury

"I acknowledge that it is merely a hurdle in my journey that I must conquer, and I hope to emerge stronger from it on the other side."

ACL injuries have become more common in women's soccer, affecting various players such as Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, Alexia Putellas, and most recently, Caroline Weir, in the past few years.

With each player's fall in women's sports these days, the initial concern is always whether it's an ACL injury - a significant problem that receives extensive attention. However, it's essential to remember that there are other injuries that can keep you sidelined for a similar duration; it's not solely ACLs. It's evident that further investigation is necessary to address this issue, and thankfully, it appears that research is actively being conducted, which is a promising development.

Being an elite athlete encompasses both the triumphs and the struggles that go unnoticed by others. These obstacles are encountered behind the scenes, but they serve as valuable lessons to overcome. The duration of five months spent away from the field has been the lengthiest period Fox has ever gone without wearing her boots.

During her break, Fox made the most of her time by spending quality moments with her beloved four-legged companion, a puppy named Cali. As she visited Battersea Dogs Home, she shared with us, "Cali joined my life shortly after my injury."

Fox and her family have rescued four cats from the shelter throughout the years, and the 20-year-old confesses that her bond with her pets has been instrumental in her recovery.

"The past few months have undoubtedly been challenging, and during those difficult times, they have provided immense solace," she expressed. "They divert your attention and offer solace whenever required. Moreover, they are without a doubt my closest companion as well."

As well as her love for dogs and cats, Fox's other soulmate is Chelsea FC, a club she's been with since she was at primary school.

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Jorja Fox signed her first professional contract with Chelsea last summer

And having been a long-time champion for a significant period has greatly aided her mental resilience during the most challenging phase of her professional journey.

"Nobody desires to settle for mediocrity; everyone aspires to be the finest. This drive can be observed in every sport, as participants do not compete merely for the sake of participating but to emerge victorious."

"I have been with Chelsea since I was eight years old, and from a young age, they instilled in me a strong desire to win. In the Academy, I was unaccustomed to defeat, and winning trophies has become a natural part of our Chelsea experience.

This club has always been my one and only aspiration. Playing for Chelsea is a childhood dream come true, and the mere thought of wearing that jersey once more fills me with excitement. I am eagerly looking forward to it."