SARINA Bolden said she had ruptured her ACL last April, as she finally revealed the reason for her absences for the Philippines in previous international windows, including the recent AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers.
In a post on Instagram, Bolden wrote that the past few months have been a difficult time for her after suffering the injury while with her club team FC Como Women in Italy.
The 29-year-old Bolden said she had surgery in Australia last May and is now recovering both physically and mentally.
“I felt it all. Shock, sadness, denial, frustration. Some days are heavier than others… I’ve had time to process and to start healing both physically and mentally, but I know this will be a long road, and I’m giving myself grace to take it day-by-day,” wrote Bolden on Instagram.
The Filipinas have been vague about Bolden, the lone goal-scorer of the Philippines in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and her status after she didn't participate in a couple of camps and international friendlies over the last few months. She was not with the team when they booked a seat in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup by sweeping the qualifiers in Cambodia just last week.
No Sarina for AFC Women's Asian Cup
With her revelation on Thursday, Bolden is likely out for the continental meet to be held in March next year in Australia since a ruptured ACL could take a year of recovery, according to online resources.
“I’m sorry to those I’ve left in the dark,” Bolden explained. “I just needed the space to sit with it all before I could share. And while this also marks the end of my time in Italy, I’m excited to focus on what’s ahead, starting with this recovery,” she said.
The Filipinas striker made it clear, though, that she is out to come back and play again, while also sending her well wishes to the national team.
“I’m not done. Far from it,” said Bolden. “I’ll give everything I have to this game for as long as I can. I’ve always been fuelled by the setbacks and I know this will be no different. The fire’s still in me and if anything, it’s burning a little hotter.”
“Sending all my love and support to the Philippines Women’s National Team in the upcoming windows. I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.”
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