Nigeria midfielder Deborah Abiodun has undergone successful surgery on a hip injury that brought her 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season with Washington Spirit to an early end.

The 22-year-old Nigeria international confirmed the successful procedure on Friday, September 18, through a post on Instagram featuring photographs taken after the operation.

While acknowledging the emotional difficulty of suffering a serious injury, Abiodun used the opportunity to encourage young footballers who may find themselves dealing with similar setbacks.

“It’s tough sometimes, but you gotta keep going,” Abiodun wrote.

“Thank you, everyone, for your kind words and prayers. First slide is there to motivate players, especially younger ones that might be in a similar situation like myself.

“I was scared and nervous; it gets better, hang in there.”

Abiodun’s injury had already ruled her out for the remainder of the NWSL campaign after Washington Spirit placed her on the season-ending injury list on September 7.

The midfielder had initially been placed on the club’s 45-day injury list as the team monitored her condition before the decision was taken to end her involvement for the season.

Her final appearance for Washington Spirit came on August 23, when the club suffered a 1-0 defeat to Orlando Pride.

The injury represents an interruption to an important period in Abiodun’s career, having established herself as part of the Super Falcons setup and continued her development in the highly competitive NWSL.

Despite the setback, the midfielder’s message suggests a positive mindset as she begins the rehabilitation process following surgery.

For Abiodun, the immediate priority will be recovery and rehabilitation, with the timing of her return to competitive football expected to depend on her medical progress and rehabilitation programme.

Her decision to publicly share her experience also provides encouragement to younger players who often face the psychological and physical challenges associated with long-term injuries.

The Super Falcons midfielder’s message - “hang in there”, reflects the importance of patience and resilience during the recovery process.

As she begins the next stage of her rehabilitation, Abiodun will hope to return to full fitness and resume both her club and international career after overcoming the latest challenge.