Crystal Palace forward Elise Hughes has won 31 Wales caps
Wales striker Elise Hughes has revealed that the apprehension of potentially missing Euro 2025 served as her primary motivation during the “bad times” of her recovery from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery.
The 24-year-old Crystal Palace striker made her return to the pitch in February, concluding a nine-month absence due to the knee injury.
Wales’ cap centurion Sophie Ingle has also rejoined the squad after recovering from a similar ACL injury. However, goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan, defender Mayzee Davies, and midfielder Megan Wynne have been ruled out of the tournament in Switzerland following their own ACL surgeries.
FIFA, the world’s governing body for football, is currently funding research to determine if hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles contribute to the increased prevalence of ACL injuries in women’s football.
The year-long study, conducted at Kingston University London, commenced in June.
Research indicates that female footballers are two to six times more likely to sustain such injuries compared to their male counterparts.
Hughes, who was the Championship’s leading goalscorer at the time of her injury, now aims to make a significant contribution for Wales as they participate in their inaugural major tournament.
This video can not be played
‘If it takes a tooth to win the game, I’ll lose all of them’
Hughes suffered her ACL injury shortly after securing promotion with Crystal Palace, immediately shifting her focus to Wales.
“The injury was obviously devastating at the time, especially as it occurred during a season where I felt I was performing exceptionally well,” Hughes told BBC Sport Wales.
“Upon my return in February, knowing that the team had qualified, it provided additional motivation to improve, be ready, and prepare for this summer’s competition.”
“I was sidelined for nine months and dedicated each day to shortening that period, but it’s just not a safe approach.”
Hughes stated that the road to recovery from an ACL injury is more challenging than many appreciate, with the most difficult aspect being the inability to immediately perform at her previous level.
“Initially, you’re essentially relearning to walk, something you never expect to experience,” she said.
“While you’re aware that ACL injuries are prevalent in women’s football, you never imagine it happening to you until it does.”
“I don’t think I fully understood or accepted it until about three or four months into the recovery.”
“Everyone’s journey is unique. For me, the toughest part was returning because I wasn’t the same player I was before the injury. I had anticipated returning in peak condition, but I had been out of the game for the better part of a season.”
“No one prepares you for that. Personally, the return was the hardest part due to the expectations I place on myself.”
Elise Hughes (left) and Sophie Ingle (right) are both part of Wales’ 23-player squad for Euro 2025
Hughes prioritized supporting her international teammate after Ingle sustained the same injury during the 2024 pre-season.
Ingle’s recovery timeline meant her participation in Euro 2025 was uncertain. While she has been named in Wales’ squad, the former Chelsea midfielder has not played a competitive match in over a year.
“It was the first time I had more experience than Soph in something, being a few months ahead in recovery,” Hughes noted.
“I told her that the situation was obviously difficult.”
“I initially reached out to Soph weekly, which she probably found annoying at times! Afterward, I checked in monthly to ensure she was feeling positive, as it’s easy to lose that positivity.”
“It was more challenging for Soph due to her timeline, and she was in more of a hurry to return, but she did exceptionally well to do so safely. It’s great to have her back.”
‘Underdogs’ Wales happy to be written off at Euro 2025
ACL injury saw player miss out on Euros dream
Sweltering Switzerland – how hot is Euro 2025 going to be?
Now fully recovered, Hughes is eager to make a mark in Wales’ first major tournament appearance.
Rhian Wilkinson’s team has been drawn into a formidable group alongside England, France, and the Netherlands. However, Hughes stated that the Wales squad is already feeling comfortable in Switzerland and is prepared to compete.
“It feels surreal to be here. The staff who arrived the week before us have made this place a home away from Wales. The scenery here is very Welsh, so we already feel at home,” she added.
“Honestly, arriving here is everything we’ve ever wanted. Now that we’re here, we’re ready and excited to go.”
“Being at a major tournament is incredible, truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As soon as we arrived, it felt like a dream.”
“It’s one of those moments where you need to be present to fully appreciate it. I believe the squad is very much in that mindset and we’re enjoying it immensely.”