Pulisic Confirms Fractured Leg, Bruising After World Cup Loss
Christian Pulisic suffered a fractured right tibia and fibula during the U.S. team's 1-4 World Cup loss to Belgium, with his recovery timeline uncertain ahead of AC Milan's league season opener in late August.
Christian Pulisic, the U.S. national team's star midfielder, suffered a fractured right tibia and fibula with bruising during the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium, which the Americans lost 1-4. The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the diagnosis following the game. The federation will collaborate with AC Milan, Pulisic's club team, on his recovery process for the 27-year-old athlete. However, it remains uncertain whether he will be healthy enough to play in Milan's league season opener on August 23. Although the U.S. team has not disclosed a specific recovery timeline, reports indicate Pulisic will likely need several weeks of treatment, though not extending to months. Pulisic has faced considerable criticism for his overall form during this World Cup campaign. The controversy is further complicated by his earlier withdrawal from the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which he cited as preparation for the World Cup.