08/07/2026
🚨 Not every serious knee injury is an ACL tear.
USWNT and Gotham FC defender Emily Sonnett recently suffered a ruptured patellar tendon—a significant injury that, while less common than an ACL tear, can be just as challenging to recover from.
The patellar tendon connects your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone (tibia) and plays a vital role in straightening your knee. It’s essential for everyday movements like walking, climbing stairs, standing up from a chair, and athletic movements like running, jumping, and cutting.
When this tendon ruptures, people often experience:
• A sudden “pop” at the time of injury
• Immediate pain and swelling
• Difficulty or inability to straighten the knee
• Trouble walking or bearing weight
• A kneecap that may appear higher than normal
Most complete patellar tendon ruptures require surgical repair, followed by months of physical therapy. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion, rebuilding strength, improving balance and coordination, and gradually progressing back to daily activities and sport. Recovery requires patience, consistency, and a personalized plan to safely regain function.
While injuries like this can be devastating, the right treatment team and a structured rehabilitation program can help athletes and active individuals return to the activities they love.
We wish Emily Sonnett a successful surgery and a smooth recovery! 💙