CHRISTIAN PULISIC FRACTURES LEG IN WORLD CUP DEFEAT

Christian Pulisic sustained a microfracture and bone bruise to his tibia and fibula in his right leg during the United States' 4-1 World Cup last 16 defeat to Belgium. The incident occurred in the second half when Pulisic attempted a shot but instead made contact with Belgian midfielder Youri Tieleman's leg. Pulisic was substituted in the 59th minute, shortly after Belgium scored their third goal. US Football confirmed the diagnosis via a statement on social media.

The injury prompted criticism from prominent US figures in the immediate aftermath of the match. Carli Lloyd, the US' all-time leading goal scorer, expressed disappointment with Pulisic's performance throughout the tournament, referencing his earlier decision to sit out the 2025 Gold Cup to rest ahead of a World Cup year. Landon Donovan, the all-time US top scorer at men's World Cups, stated he would have refused to leave the field if injured. US Football and Pulisic's club side AC Milan will collaborate on his recovery plan.

The Athletic reported, citing sources briefed on the diagnosis, that Pulisic will be sidelined for several weeks but not months. Had the US progressed to the quarter-finals, Pulisic would not have been available for selection. AC Milan begin their Serie A season on 23 August against Torino.